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Swimming Upstream: Trends in the Gender Wage Differential in 1980s

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  • Blau, Francine D
  • Kahn, Lawrence M

Abstract

Using Michigan Panel Study of Income Dynamics data for 1979 and 1988, the authors analyze how a falling gender wage gap occurred despite changes in wage structure unfavorable to low-wage workers. The decrease is traced to 'gender-specific' factors which more than counterbalanced changes in measured and unmeasured prices working against women. Supply shifts net of demand were unfavorable for women generally and hurt high-skilled more than middle- and low-skilled women. By analyzing wages, the authors find support for the notion of a gender twist in supply and demand having its largest negative effect on high-skilled women. Copyright 1997 by University of Chicago Press.

Suggested Citation

  • Blau, Francine D & Kahn, Lawrence M, 1997. "Swimming Upstream: Trends in the Gender Wage Differential in 1980s," Journal of Labor Economics, University of Chicago Press, vol. 15(1), pages 1-42, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:ucp:jlabec:v:15:y:1997:i:1:p:1-42
    DOI: 10.1086/209845
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