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Gender Inequality in the Labor Market: Continuing Progress?

Author

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  • Francine D. Blau

Abstract

This article examines the trends in women’s economic outcomes in the United States, focusing primarily on labor force participation, occupational attainment, and the gender wage gap. Considerable progress was made on all dimensions prior to the 1990s followed by a slowing or stalling of gains thereafter, with a plateauing of female labor force participation trends and a slowing of women’s occupational and wage convergence with men. The author considers the likelihood that progress in narrowing gender gaps will resume in these areas, and concludes it is unlikely without policy intervention. She then considers new policy initiatives to address work–family issues and labor market discrimination that may help to increase female labor force participation and narrow gender inequities in the labor market.

Suggested Citation

  • Francine D. Blau, 2025. "Gender Inequality in the Labor Market: Continuing Progress?," ILR Review, Cornell University, ILR School, vol. 78(2), pages 275-303, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:ilrrev:v:78:y:2025:i:2:p:275-303
    DOI: 10.1177/00197939241308844
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    3. Jeong, Hyeyun & Xu, Jiahui & Warren, John Robert & Luo, Liying & Grodsky, Eric & Muller, Chandra, 2025. "Intergenerational occupational mobility and health in the United States," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 382(C).

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