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Female and male role models and competitiveness

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  • Schier, Uta K.

Abstract

We investigate how role models affect the competitiveness of men and women. A strand of experimental literature shows that women shy away from competition. In a laboratory experiment, we test how observing an outstanding woman or man competing and succeeding (a female or a male role model) affects women's and men's competitiveness. We find that women's competitiveness increases after observing a female or male role model, while men's competitiveness is not affected. In addition, we find that a female role model raises women's self-confidence.

Suggested Citation

  • Schier, Uta K., 2020. "Female and male role models and competitiveness," Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization, Elsevier, vol. 173(C), pages 55-67.
  • Handle: RePEc:eee:jeborg:v:173:y:2020:i:c:p:55-67
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jebo.2020.03.001
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    3. Chhaochharia, Vidhi & Du, Mengqiao & Niessen-Ruenzi, Alexandra, 2022. "Counter-stereotypical female role models and women’s occupational choices☆," Journal of Economic Behavior & Organization, Elsevier, vol. 196(C), pages 501-523.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Role model; Competition; Belief updating; Gender;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C91 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Laboratory, Individual Behavior
    • J16 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Economics of Gender; Non-labor Discrimination
    • D83 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Search; Learning; Information and Knowledge; Communication; Belief; Unawareness

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