Women in the Russian Service for Emergencies: Motivation for Enter the Service and Career Features

Abstract

There are few sociological studies of the service in the structures of the Ministry of Emergency Situations of the Russian Federation. There are few gender-sensitive research too. Although this type of public service has always been considered a sphere of male employment, women work in it too. The solution by these women of the “family-work” role conflict is very important. Purpose of the study: to find out the opinion of graduates of the St. Petersburg University of the State Fire Service of the Ministry of Emergencies of Russia and female employees of the Ministry of Emergency Situations about: 1) the motivation for women to enter this university; 2) the prospects for their career growth and the creation of a family. Methods: analysis of documents and departmental statistics, Internet survey, group focused interview. Sample survey: 200 university graduates, representing all areas of study. The focus group was attended by 6 women. They have a length of service in the Ministry of Emergency Situation from 5 to 10 years. Results. The study tested three hypotheses. 1) The motivation to enter this university is different for women and men. The hypothesis was disproved. At the same time, it turned out that for women it turns out to be more significant than for men, the influence of the immediate environment on the admission decision. 2) Service in the Ministry of Emergency Situations has significant differences from work in other organizations. It can affect the creation of a family. The hypothesis was partially confirmed. Features have been highlighted, but they do not have a significant impact on family creaation. 3) It is more difficult for women than for men to make a career in the structures of the Ministry of Emergency Situations. The hypothesis requires additional verification. According to the respondents, careers are more influenced not by gender stereotypes, but by personal characteristics and the desire to pursue a career, but the opposite point of view was also presented. The relevance of the study. This pilot project made it possible to outline the directions for further study of the prospects for the feminization of public service of other types (not civil and not military).

Keywords

• public service of other types
• ministry of emergency situations
• firefighters
• gender
• women
• professional and career motivation
• family