Gender, self-concept and work in Brazilan and Angolan perspectives

Abstract

The study presents a descriptive qualitative analysis of the differences and similarities of feminine and masculine attributes of Brazilian and Angolan workers, with or without management jobs. The assumption is that the gender attributes found in the individual’s self-concept are related to socialization and the work experience in the two countries. A total of 431 workers participated – 300 from Brazil and 131 from Angola –, 164 men and 267 women. The Inventory of Self-Concept Gender Schemes was used. Data were analyzed using frequency, the chi-square test, and qualitative analysis, taking into account country, gender, and management function. The results indicate the prevalence of feminine attributes in the overall sample, not differentiating by country. The “Responsible” attribute stands out among workers, regardless of country, gender, and managerial level. The “Dedicated” attribute is more strongly present in those without management responsibilities. Masculine attributes, although fewer in number, are strongly associated with men and differ by country and managerial function. It is concluded that feminine attributes are present in workers’ self-assessments regardless of gender and managerial level, supporting the hypothesis of similarities between gender attributes. Limitations of the study are presented in the final section.