Sex Effects on Evaluation

Abstract

Prejudicial evaluation is often cited as an explanation for the apparent failure of competent women to achieve as much success as men have. In this paper we review research on the evaluation of the qualifications and performance of men and women, and research on attributions about the causes of performance. Although most of the studies reviewed show pro-male evaluation bias, contradictory evidence has also been found. Three factors affecting these research findings are discussed: (1) the level of inference required in the evaluation situation, (2) the effects of sex-rote incongruence, and (3) the effect of level of qualifications and performance involved.