Multiple roles, multiple burdens: The experiences of female scientists with children
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
8-20-2012
Abstract
This qualitative case study of faculty at one research institution examined the factors that shape female scientists' ability to balance motherhood and their careers. Using role strain as a theoretical lens, the results indicated that participants assumed a variety of roles that frequently came into conflict with one another. In particular, female scientists' ability to balance competing demands was shaped by the nature of the academic work in the sciences, departmental colleagues, and features of home life. While on the surface policies and people supported participants who were balancing work and family, the underlying norms suggested that faculty should prioritize work over family. The article concludes with suggestions of ways institutions might create a culture that supports female scientists in balancing their work and home demands. © 2012 by Begell House, Inc.
Publication Title
Journal of Women and Minorities in Science and Engineering
Volume
18
Issue
2
First Page
135
Last Page
152
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
10.1615/JWomenMinorScienEng.2012001669
ISSN
10728325
Citation Information
Sallee, & Pascale, A. B. (2012). Multiple roles, multiple burdens: The experiences of female scientists with children. Journal of Women and Minorities in Science and Engineering, 18(2), 135–152. https://doi.org/10.1615/JWomenMinorScienEng.2012001669