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Seeking organizational shelter: The gendered teacher motivation of chinese female teachers

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  • Liu, Yuhang
  • Wen, Hao
  • Zhou, Jing
  • Luo, Yang

Abstract

Teaching in China is an increasingly popular career for women, who often seek it as an “organizational shelter.” While previous research cites macroeconomic and cultural factors, this study explores how the institutional logic of schools as “Danwei” (work-units) shapes this choice. Based on in-depth interviews with 29 female teachers, the study investigates how unique “Danwei” characteristics create this shelter. It finds that women choose teaching not only for intrinsic motivation but as a rational response to an institutional environment that accommodates both societal gender norms and career needs. This reveals the institutional logic and gender dynamics behind this career choice, offering a new perspective on teacher motivation and providing insights for developing more gender-equitable education policies

Suggested Citation

  • Liu, Yuhang & Wen, Hao & Zhou, Jing & Luo, Yang, 2026. "Seeking organizational shelter: The gendered teacher motivation of chinese female teachers," International Journal of Educational Development, Elsevier, vol. 121(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:injoed:v:121:y:2026:i:c:s0738059326000325
    DOI: 10.1016/j.ijedudev.2026.103522
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