Gender is the Original Sin: Research on the Dilemma of Female Leadership Acquisition in the View of Gender Stereotypes——Field Survey based on the Mass Media Industry

Abstract

Gender stereotype has been regarded as a common social psychological phenomenon, which mainly refers to the fixed expectations that people in society have for the personality and behavioral characteristics of men and women respectively. For example, women are often expected to be docile, do full-time housework, or play a supporting role. In the professional field, the impact of gender stereotypes is more direct and specific. Gender stereotypes in the industry will greatly affect and even limit an individual’s career identity and occupation planning. In addition, gender stereotypes also play an important role in the construction of leadership. According to former research, men are more likely to gain authority recognition in leadership positions. However, when women show talent in leadership skills, their behavior will be seen as violating gender expectations. In the mass media industry, gender stereotypes have a significant impact on women’s career development, promotion, and leadership acquisition. Although contemporary women have accounted for a certain proportion in office, gender stereotypes still hinder their career advancement and leadership. This article explores whether the media industry provides a workplace environment suitable for women’s career development, especially how gender stereotypes affect women’s career advancement and leadership development in the media industry. This study will provide a new perspective for understanding the complexity of gender bias and women’s career development in the mass media industry.