Gender Stereotypes and Career Aspirations: How Social Expectations Shape Women’s Professional Goals

Abstract

Gender stereotypes play a significant role in shaping women’s professional goals and career trajectories. This paper explores how social expectations, cultural beliefs, and traditional gender norms influence women’s career aspirations and their perceptions of success. Using a mixed-method design, the study examines the extent to which family expectations, media portrayals, and societal pressures contribute to occupational segregation and underrepresentation of women in leadership roles. Findings reveal that internalized gender norms often restrict women’s career ambitions and lead to self-limiting choices. The paper concludes that challenging social stereotypes and promoting inclusive educational and professional environments are essential to support women’s empowerment and equal career opportunities.

Keywords: Gender Stereotypes, Career Aspirations, Women Empowerment, Social Expectations, Occupational Segregation, Gender Norms