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Gender stereotypes and professional experiences of female nurses in Türkiye

Author

Listed:
  • Aca, Zeynep
  • Kırcal-Şahin, Arzu
  • Özdemir, Akın
  • Kaymakcı, Yavuz Selim

Abstract

Introduction: Gender roles and stereotypes play a significant role in shaping the nursing profession, perpetuating systemic inequities that negatively impact professional experiences and healthcare system efficiency. In Türkiye, patriarchal norms and systemic disparities exacerbate these workplace challenges, particularly for female nurses. Methods: This qualitative study utilized semi-structured interviews with 13 female nurses working in intensive care units to examine the influence of societal expectations, workplace discrimination, and institutional policies on gender inequities in nursing. Results: The findings reveal that cultural norms, family influence, and constrained career planning often channel women into nursing, reinforcing perceptions of the profession as an extension of caregiving roles. While participants rejected the notion of nursing as a “women’s profession,” their narratives highlighted the pervasive impact of gendered expectations. Additionally, political favoritism and nepotism were identified as factors exacerbating workplace challenges, reflecting broader systemic issues in Türkiye’s labor market. The normalization of gender norms and their internalization by female nurses further complicate efforts to combat discrimination. Discussion: The study underscores the necessity for policy interventions to address systemic gender inequities in nursing. Recommendations include implementing mandatory gender equality education within healthcare institutions, stricter enforcement of anti-violence laws, and the establishment of psychological and legal support systems for workplace violence victims. Additional measures, such as childcare support and regulations against marital status-based discrimination, are essential to mitigate inequities. By addressing societal, cultural, and institutional factors, this research provides actionable strategies for healthcare organizations and policymakers to promote equity and improve sector efficiency.

Suggested Citation

  • Aca, Zeynep & Kırcal-Şahin, Arzu & Özdemir, Akın & Kaymakcı, Yavuz Selim, 2025. "Gender stereotypes and professional experiences of female nurses in Türkiye," LSE Research Online Documents on Economics 127233, London School of Economics and Political Science, LSE Library.
    • Handle: RePEc:ehl:lserod:127233
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    File URL: http://eprints.lse.ac.uk/127233/
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Esra N. Kilci, 2021. "A study on financial sustainability of healthcare indicators for Turkey under the health transformation program," International Journal of Health Planning and Management, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 36(4), pages 1287-1307, July.
    2. Heilman, Madeline E. & Caleo, Suzette & Manzi, Francesca, 2024. "Women at work: pathways from gender stereotypes to gender bias and discrimination," LSE Research Online Documents on Economics 121032, London School of Economics and Political Science, LSE Library.
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    6. Mustafa F. Özbilgin & Cihat Erbil & Nur Gündoğdu, 2024. "Political tie diversity and inclusion at work in Asia: a critical view and a roadmap," Asian Business & Management, Palgrave Macmillan, vol. 23(3), pages 374-392, July.
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    workplace discrimination; professional growth; female nurses; healthcare inequality; gender inequities;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • R14 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - General Regional Economics - - - Land Use Patterns
    • J01 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - General - - - Labor Economics: General

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