Examining Gender Differences in Performance Evaluations, Rewards and Punishments

With the increasing number of women holding professional positions in the workforce, there have been a number of studies examining gender differences within the organization. This study updates the understanding of the female working professionals by examining whether gender affects the manner in which a person is evaluated, rewarded, and/or punished by his/her supervisor. Hypotheses are developed from a cross-disciplinary literature including accounting, management, marketing, and psychology. Results showing fewer gender differences than expected bring into question anecdotal suggestions that females continue to require special programs to facilitate their assimilation into the workforce. Specific recommendations are provided regarding individual treatment for both male and female employees.