Blackwell Reference Online

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Occupational segregation refers to the differential distribution of groups defined by ascribed characteristics (e.g., sex, race/ethnicity) across occupations. The level of segregation indicates the strength of the association between group membership and occupations. Levels vary on a continuum bracketed by perfect segregation and perfect integration. Perfect segregation occurs where occupation and group membership correspond perfectly, such that no occupations are populated by more than one group. Perfect integration occurs if there is no association between occupation and group membership, where this typically means that each group holds the same proportion of positions in each occupation as it holds in the labor force. The pattern of segregation refers to the precise configuration of a group's over- or underrepresentation in particular occupations. Patterns can vary independently from levels. For example, the segregation level may remain stable even if a particular occupation switches from male overrepresentation to (equivalent) female overrepresentation. Conversely, levels may decline without altering the underlying pattern if all occupations shift from being highly segregated to only moderately so. Interest in occupational segregation stems from two sources. Segregation is a known precursor to inequalities in pay, autonomy, promotions, working conditions, prestige, and even ... log in or subscribe to read full text