The psychological disengagement model among women in science, engineering, and technology.
Psychological responses to personal relative deprivation based on self/outgroup comparisons (named self/outgroup PRD) were explored among women in science, engineering, and technology according to the Psychological Disengagement Model. Three studies revealed that the experience of self/outgroup PRD increased women's likelihood of discounting the feedback they received at work. In turn, discounting led them to devalue their profession. Each study further documented the damaging effect of both psychological disengagement mechanisms. Study 1 (N = 93) revealed that discounting and devaluing were associated with decreased self-esteem. These results were replicated in Studies 2 and 3. Study 2 (N = 163) demonstrated that discounting and devaluing were also associated with reduced self-esteem stability. Study 3 (N = 187) further showed that psychological disengagement was also associated with women's occupational commitment. Theoretical and practical implications of these results are considered.
School of Psychology, Université de Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada.
Ann M
AM
Beaton
School of Psychology, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
Francine
F
Tougas
Direction de l'enseignement et de la recherche, École nationale d'administration publique, Quebec City, Québec, Canada.
Natalie
N
Rinfret
School of Psychology, Université de Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada.
Tanya
T
Monger
D000328:Adult; D003674:Defense Mechanisms; D004738:Engineering; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008960:Models, Psychological; D012586:Science; D012649:Self Concept; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013672:Technology; D014931:Women, Working / Q000523:psychology*
personal relative deprivation; psychological disengagement; women and non-traditional work