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‘Girl disease’: Women managers' reticence and ambivalence towards organizational advancement

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  • Ross-Smith, Anne
  • Chesterman, Colleen

Abstract

This paper addresses the theme of the special issue by drawing attention to ways in which gender scholarship can influence management and organizational studies in an analysis of the pathways to senior management. Based on an Australia-wide study of the experiences of women and men in senior management, it adds new empirical data to the body of knowledge on women's career advancement at senior levels of organizations. Many women interviewed expressed reticence and ambivalence about the advancement of their careers and their prospects for promotion, which was called ‘girl disease’ by one woman. Forms of ambivalence varied according to different age and sector cohorts; in particular difficulties were identified in reconciling family responsibilities with the demands of senior level appointments. We analyse expressions of ambivalence and reticence by exploring the tensions between women's gender identity and the organizational factors that shape their ‘managerial’ identity. We conclude by suggesting strategies to improve organizational practices in relation to women's career development and promotion.

Suggested Citation

  • Ross-Smith, Anne & Chesterman, Colleen, 2009. "‘Girl disease’: Women managers' reticence and ambivalence towards organizational advancement," Journal of Management & Organization, Cambridge University Press, vol. 15(5), pages 582-595, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:cup:jomorg:v:15:y:2009:i:05:p:582-595_00
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    Cited by:

    1. Zaid Ahmad & Nauman Azam & Yasir Nasir & Usman Khan, 2021. "Impact Of Gender Differences On Leadership: An Investigation Of Moderating Impact Of Gender-Based Biasness," Bulletin of Business and Economics (BBE), Research Foundation for Humanity (RFH), vol. 10(4), pages 151-166, December.
    2. Lisa Cullen & Theo Christopher, 2012. "Career Progression of Female Accountants in the State Public Sector," Australian Accounting Review, CPA Australia, vol. 22(1), pages 68-85, March.

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