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Preferences, Discrimination, and Occupational Segregation

Author

Listed:
  • Bahal, Girish

    (University of Western Australia)

  • Feld, Jan

    (Victoria University of Wellington)

  • Shrivastava, Anand

    (Azim Premji University)

Abstract

Preferences and discrimination are often treated as competing explanations for occupational segregation. This framing misses an important feedback. Preference-based sorting changes the sex composition of occupations; composition changes expected discrimination; and expected discrimination changes sorting. We formalize this mechanism through a general model, where occupations differ in flexibility and workers face more discrimination when their sex is underrepresented. We show two results. First, discrimination amplifies segregation caused by preferences. Second, preferences and discrimination are negatively correlated across occupations. We use the model to study anti-discrimination policies, preference-equalizing policies, and policies that make high-wage occupations more flexible.

Suggested Citation

  • Bahal, Girish & Feld, Jan & Shrivastava, Anand, 2026. "Preferences, Discrimination, and Occupational Segregation," IZA Discussion Papers 18843, IZA Network @ LISER.
    • Handle: RePEc:iza:izadps:dp18843
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • J16 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Economics of Gender; Non-labor Discrimination
    • J24 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Human Capital; Skills; Occupational Choice; Labor Productivity
    • J71 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Labor Discrimination - - - Hiring and Firing

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