NCJ Number
142104
Journal
Probation Journal Volume: 36 Issue: 1 Dated: (March 1989) Pages: 12-17
Date Published
1989
Length
6 pages
Annotation
Although it is commonly assumed that women in England's Probation Service seek promotions but are held back because of their socially ascribed gender role or indirect discrimination, the author contends that many women have substantial doubts about Probation Service management and its compatibility with their own practice values and personal growth.
Abstract
Women's reluctance to apply for promotions may be understood in terms of their experience in their world and their value systems. Many may not seek promotions, recognizing that management may represent an organizational role in which they will be uncomfortable due to their values. Further, women may have a very different understanding of achievement and success than men and may link their notions of achievement with social acceptability, while men may link success with leadership capacity and intelligence. Some women want to have both relational and independence needs met through family life and paid employment. Nonetheless, men have dominated management positions and there is growing concern among males and females in the Probation Service about the increasing prevalence of coercion and control over the traditional relational concerns of social work. One response to women's underrepresentation in management is to implement reform measures within an equal opportunity framework. In addition, education about women's issues is essential. Women also need to form alliances with and provide support for men who are similarly struggling to retain communal values and strategies. 4 references