Glossary / Lexicon

Gender discrimination means denying a job to someone solely on the basis of whether the person is a man or a woman.

Gender discrimination refers to the unfair treatment of individuals based on their gender or gender identity. It can occur in various settings such as education, employment, healthcare, and access to resources, among others. It is a pervasive issue worldwide that affects both men and women but disproportionately impacts women and gender minorities.

Examples of gender discrimination include paying women less than men for the same job, denying women opportunities for promotion, limiting women's access to education or healthcare, and gender-based violence such as sexual harassment or assault. Other forms of gender discrimination include social and cultural norms that reinforce gender stereotypes and limit opportunities for individuals who do not conform to traditional gender roles.

Gender discrimination can have significant negative impacts on the mental and physical health of individuals. It can lead to feelings of worthlessness, low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. Women who experience gender discrimination in the workplace are more likely to experience burnout, job dissatisfaction, and high levels of stress.

Similar concepts to gender discrimination include sex discrimination, which refers to discrimination based on an individual's biological sex, and sexism, which is the belief that one gender is superior to another. Transphobia and homophobia are also forms of discrimination against individuals based on their gender identity or sexual orientation.

Efforts to address gender discrimination include implementing policies and laws that prohibit gender-based discrimination, promoting gender equality and equity, and challenging societal norms and stereotypes that perpetuate gender discrimination. In the workplace, initiatives such as diversity and inclusion training, flexible work arrangements, and mentoring programs can help to create a more inclusive environment and reduce gender discrimination.

Overall, gender discrimination is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach to address. By promoting gender equality and challenging societal norms and stereotypes, we can work towards a more just and equitable society for all individuals regardless of their gender or gender identity.