WAGE GAP AND PREFERENCES: A MICRO-LEVEL ANALYSIS

Abstract

During the past few decades, women have entered the labour market in large numbers but there is still wide gender segregation in education, work participation, employment, and occupational pattern all over the world. The main objective of this paper is to explore all aspects and dimensions of wage discrimination and attitudes of choices responsible for this segregation. A sample survey of working population engaged in two sectors, which employ a substantial number of women (education and medical), is conducted. Findings show that women generally accumulate less human capital than men. They have lower educational attainment than their male counterparts. They have a greater concentration on non-technical courses and subjects in arts and fine arts. Due to family responsibilities, women’s labour force participation tends to be more interrupted and women participate in labour market for fewer years than men and therefore gain less experience. Women hold less advantageous work positions. Regression results show that education, experience, family obligations, working conditions etc. significantly affects wages.