What is Second Generation Bias?

Second Generation Bias is a form of discrimination women experience in the workplace. Rather than first-generation bias – which is visible and purposeful discrimination, it is more subtle and typically perpetuated through stereotypes and organisational systems. 

Researchers Ibarra, Ely and Kolb describe how Second Generation Bias creates a context in the workplace akin to “something in the water” that prevents women from reaching their full potential. This bias is not necessarily intentional; instead, it represents the environment in which women face repeated barriers to progression. It is a collection of factors such as;

• Organisations’ gendered career paths and talent systems that define leadership traits akin to male characteristics.
• Networks that subtly exclude women.
• A lack of female role models.
• Women who find themselves in a ‘Double Bind‘ as people judge them as ‘power-hungry’ and ‘self-promoting’ compared to men who are seen as ‘likeable and capable’ for similar behaviours or in the same context.
• The ‘Motherhood Penalty‘ whereby women incur a professional ‘cost’ by having children. 

Without an explanation of Second Generation Bias, many incorrectly interpret women’s lack of progress as a lack of aspiration, ambition or capability.