The Gender Aspects of the Professional Self-Realization in Ukraine

Abstract

It is substantiated that a comprehensive and system approach, with the participation of both the State and the public, is needed to address the impact of gender stereotypes on the professional self-realization. The publication is aimed at a comprehensive studying and analyzing of the gender aspects of the professional self-realization in Ukraine. The article explores the definitions of «gender» and «gender stereotypes», analyzes the modern transformations of the gender factors that affect the professional self-realization. In order to evaluate the impact of gender stereotypes on the possibility of professional self-realization, a sociological study was carried out and the gender stereotypes inherent in Ukrainian society were analyzed. The results of a survey identified manifestations of gender stereotypes and/or discrimination in employment, in job advertisements, in decision-making on career advancement of employees, in labor payment, in the perception of women leaders, in the representation of women in the highest levels of government, etc. An analysis of Ukrainian legislation on equal rights for women and men in the professional sphere is carried out, examples of social and cultural events and initiatives to draw attention to the problems of gender discrimination in Ukraine are provided. It is displayed that so far in both developed countries and Ukraine there are manifestations and consequences of gender stereotypes that hinder the personal and professional self-realization of men and women. Directions to reduce the impact of gender stereotypes and gender discrimination on the possibility of professional self-realization of the individual are proposed. It is substantiated that measures against gender discrimination should be implemented at all levels and in all spheres of public life – from personal, family-based to the State and international, from education and culture to political, social, economic, etc. It is emphasized that educational work, information and educational campaigns, education in school and family, example of parents for children are important.

Keywords

• gender inequality
• gender discrimination
• gender stereotypes
• professional self-realization
• career