Barriers to women’s career progression in LIS

This is the first of two consecutive articles taken largely from a PhD thesis. As m uch as possible I use the words of the women themselves. Briefly describes the scope, limitations and method of the research. Then considers respondents’ attitudes and perceptions concerning working behaviour. Summarises respondents’ evidence which overwhelmingly identifies the double burden as the main barrier to women’s career progression in LIS. There are two issues: one is the daily routine of domestic duties and the extra demands on time, and the other is the emotional strain that accompanies caring responsibilities, that fall to most women, in some form, at some time in their lives. The logistical problems faced by women who find that a large proportion of their time is constantly consumed by domestic and caring duties are considerable. Furthermore, the worry and guilt consume inner resources which may be needed at work.