Gender Imbalance in the Workforce: An Examination of the Public Accounting Profession

Abstract

This paper reports on a study of gender bias in the public accounting profession. The research confirms that “institutionalised” gender discrimination takes place in the profession as a result of the existence of organisationa1 structures that foster advancement through a filter built upon male lifestyles and expectations. It also finds that women's career advancement in the profession is inhibited because opportunities for promotion become available at times when female practitioners are taking leave to begin families.