Gender and leadership within a modern society Social Research Paper (Research Paper Sample)

Running Head: GENDER AND LEADERSHIP
Gender and Leadership within a Modern American Society
Hodges University
Table of Contents
Abstract3
Introduction4
Background4
Discussion of Applicability………………………………………………………………...6
Stereotypes Still Exist………………………………………………………………6
Is there a Difference between Male and Female Leaders? ........................................ 9
Conclusion………………………………………………………………………………….11
References5
Abstract
Organizational research over the past several decades has indicated the importance of leadership effectiveness. It has been approached by applying different leadership styles, traits, and approaches; all of which have been used to determine how certain characteristics effect leadership, including gender. This project looks at the effects of gender on leadership from a number of perspectives and established theories in order to determine how firms can best address gender issues as they are related to leadership in order to increase effectiveness through higher performance and efficiency.
Gender and Leadership within a Modern American Society
Introduction
In this project, the researcher seeks to investigate social, status, and trait-based theories of gender as means for understanding how differences in the workplace manifest; especially within the realm of leadership approaches and abilities. Once a brief background is provided on the concept of gender, the different theoretical approaches to gender and leadership will be discusses as they apply to today’s organization.
Organizations often invest considerable time, money and effort into determining what measures should be taken to make it more efficient and effective. Firms look for strong, effective leaders who will grow their company and create a competitive advantage over other competitors in their industry. Equality is often believed to be a given, especially with the existence of the U.S. equal Employment Opportunity Commission and equal rights law. Since women first started entering the workforce in great numbers during World War II, a societal shift towards greater equality for all began. Over time, women won equal rights in the workplace; however, the discrimination was already deeply entwined into American society, much of which is still present today. Although there are a number of laws to protect employees from discrimination, hidden constructs of discrimination can limit opportunities, including those for advancement for women (as well as other minority groups).