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Gender gap in upward mobility: what is the role of non-cognitive traits?

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  • Yu-Wei Luke Chu
  • Susan Linz

Abstract

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to find whether non-cognitive traits contribute to the gender gap in supervisory status and promotion. Design/methodology/approach - The authors use a large employer-employee matched data set collected from six former socialist countries to assess the link between non-cognitive traits and upward mobility. Findings - Controlling for workplace heterogeneity, the authors find that gender differences in locus of control, the preference for challenge vs affiliation, and adherence to work ethic together can explain about 7-18 percent of the gender gap in supervisory status and promotion. Originality/value - Overall, non-cognitive traits provide an important, though modest, explanation for the gender gap in upward mobility.

Suggested Citation

  • Yu-Wei Luke Chu & Susan Linz, 2017. "Gender gap in upward mobility: what is the role of non-cognitive traits?," International Journal of Manpower, Emerald Group Publishing Limited, vol. 38(6), pages 835-853, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:eme:ijmpps:ijm-12-2015-0220
    DOI: 10.1108/IJM-12-2015-0220
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    References listed on IDEAS

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