Pregnancy, Motherhood and the Glass Ceiling - Briefing Note

Pregnancy, Motherhood and the Glass Ceiling an Overview of the research

In 2020 i completed some quantitative research on the societal perceptions of pregnancy at work. An overview..

The Early Challenges of Motherhood

While many assume workplace challenges for mothers begin after childbirth, my research indicates biases often start during pregnancy. This early discrimination deserves attention, as it affects women’s professional journeys.

The Central Question: Does Motherhood Limit Perceived Leadership Potential?

My research addresses a significant question: Does becoming a mother hinder women from attaining leadership roles? The statistic that only 29% of board roles in FTSE 100 companies were held by women in 2018 underscores this issue.

Understanding Bias Through the Stereotype Content Model (SCM)

A vital tool in my analysis is the Stereotype Content Model (SCM), which measures perceptions based on competence and warmth. I found that pregnant women score lower than mothers in perceived competence and leadership, demonstrating that biases can run deep.

Consequences of Low Perceived Competence

These negative perceptions lead to pregnant women being overlooked for key assignments or leadership positions, creating a frustrating barrier for their career progression. In the war for talent, organisations would benefit from rethinking how they support expectant mothers.

A Vicious Cycle of Bias and Self-Doubt

The pressure from biases can trigger a cycle, leading pregnant women to doubt their capabilities and withdraw from work, reinforcing negative stereotypes.

Creating Change: Engaging Organisations 

Addressing these biases requires collective efforts that engage both men and women throughout organisations.

Because stereotypes are held at a cultural level, both men and women can hold unexamined, maybe illogical views without realising it. Women can hold sexist stereotypes about themselves! Training programs and supportive policies, such as flexible work arrangements, are essential for creating a culture that values open dialogue about whats real and whats imagined as far as how we stereotype others and what they can do at work.

Shattering the Glass Ceiling Together

The transition to motherhood presents challenges that unveil systemic biases. Recognising that the glass ceiling is constructed through subtle discrimination lets us work towards meaningful change.

Together, we can cultivate environments that support pregnant women and working mothers, paving the way for a future where career and motherhood can coexist without barriers.