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An Explanation of a Gender Earnings Gap in the Veterinary Profession

Author

Listed:
  • David Smith
  • Demos Vardiabasis
  • Samuel Seaman
  • Yury Adamo

Abstract

Analysis of a unique data set of U.S. veterinary firms and veterinarians provides evidence of significant differences in earnings between self-employed males and females. After controlling for important concomitant variables, including training and experience, self-employed female veterinarians generally own smaller clinics and have lower earnings than their male counterparts. This study considers which demographic/economic factors may be associated with observed gender differences in earnings. The gender gap for average earnings is about 44 percent; however, when controlling for certain characteristics, the gap narrows to as little as 23 percent, depending on the model specification. Firm size was found to be the strongest contributing factor in explaining the gender gap in earnings, and so, possible explanations for differences in firm size have also been discussed. Whilst the analysis is not conclusive, there is evidence that self-employed females may face customer discrimination, which may constrain the growth and size of female-owned firms

Suggested Citation

  • David Smith & Demos Vardiabasis & Samuel Seaman & Yury Adamo, 2021. "An Explanation of a Gender Earnings Gap in the Veterinary Profession," Athens Journal of Business & Economics, Athens Institute for Education and Research (ATINER), vol. 7(2), pages 145-160, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:ate:journl:ajbev7i2-2
    DOI: 10.30958/ajbe.7-2-2
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    References listed on IDEAS

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