Gender Differences in the Attitudes of Teenagers Toward Unions

This study investigated whether male and female high school students hold different attitudes about unions. Results indicated that female students perceived unions as less effective, less influential, and less powerful than male students. These differences remained after statistically controlling for work, social, and demographic factors. Thus, gender-based attitude differences are being formed as young people make the transition from school to work. However, no gender-based differences were found concerning willingness to vote for union representation. Suggestions on how unions can use these results and future research questions are discussed.