New research has exposed the persistent grip of gender stereotypes on the career aspirations of British teenagers, with a significant majority still viewing industries like construction and childcare as jobs for a specific gender.
Survey Reveals Deep-Rooted Stereotypes
A recent poll of 1,000 young people aged 13 to 17, commissioned by the housebuilding group untypical, found that 72% believe certain careers are gender-specific. The study identified trade roles such as bricklayers, plumbers, and electricians as being widely perceived as 'men's jobs'. In contrast, professions like hairdressing, childminding, and receptionist work were still predominantly seen as roles for women.
This perception is highlighted by the fact that while 47% of all respondents view engineering as a typically male profession, only 12% of girls have considered it as a career. The divide continues in education, with 21% of girls contemplating a future in teaching, compared to a mere 9% of boys.
A Gap Between Belief and Action
Despite these ingrained views, the research also uncovered a strong belief in personal capability and a desire for change. Eight out of 10 girls believe they are just as capable, if not more so, of taking on jobs typically seen as male-dominated. Similarly, 71% of boys feel the same about roles traditionally associated with women.
However, a significant barrier remains. Many young people reported being deterred from pursuing a career due to fears of not fitting in (24%) or knowing they would be outnumbered by the opposite sex (16%).
Amelia Maydom, head of learning and development for untypical, commented on the findings. "Our findings show job roles remain heavily gendered, even though younger people claim they want to challenge these perceptions," she said. "In the construction industry and trades in general, we're keen to spark conversation and highlight the range of roles available, encouraging people of all genders to consider them."
Parental Support and the Path Forward
The study also surveyed parents, finding that 54% believe there is more acceptance of any gender in any job today than when they first started working. Encouragingly, most parents would feel supportive (60%) or inspired (24%) if their child wanted to pursue a career in an industry typically associated with the opposite gender.
Similarly, three-quarters (76%) of the teenagers surveyed believe their generation is much more accepting of breaking norms in career choices. Yet, a telling 41% of teens feel that not enough is being done to encourage all genders into all job roles.
Amelia Maydom added a note of cautious optimism, stating, "Decades ago, seeing female doctors or male carers was uncommon. While change has been gradual, there is still plenty of progress to be made. We hope in the near future, female bricklayers and male secretaries will be seen as the norm, and no one feels held back from following their ideal career."
