Stereotypes and gender norms, deeply ingrained in societal beliefs, significantly contribute to the perpetuation of gender inequality within the workplace. The study by Ikiz, Şenol, and Güran (Tabassum and Nayak) published in the Journal of International Women’s Studies emphasizes the substantial role of stereotypes in shaping workplace dynamics. The authors claim that traditional gender roles and expectations, often perpetuated by societal norms, create stereotypes about the competence, capabilities, and appropriate roles for individuals based on their gender. Such stereotypes tend to label women as nurturing and communal, reinforcing the expectation that they excel in caregiving or administrative roles, while positioning men as assertive, rational, and better suited for leadership positions. Consequently, these ingrained beliefs hinder women's opportunities for career advancement, leading to a skewed distribution of power and influence in the workplace. The study highlights that these stereotypes affect various aspects of the work environment, influencing hiring decisions, promotions, and opportunities for skill development. For instance, the authors underline how biases based on these stereotypes influence performance evaluations, with women often being evaluated on their interpersonal skills rather than their leadership abilities. This bias not only affects women's prospects for leadership positions but also maintains the false notion that they are ill-suited for roles that require assertiveness and strategic decision-making. These deeply entrenched stereotypes play a pivotal role in reinforcing gender inequality within the workplace, further establishing traditional gender roles and preventing progress towards a more equal and diverse professional field.

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