What is Concrete Ceiling

Women are generally viewed favorably as a group, except when they assume roles that were previously dominated by men. We see examples in industries that demonstrate that the complex issue of a woman's qualifications is judged more harshly than those of their similarly situated male counterparts. Women face barriers to leadership positions because of the limitations placed upon gender roles in as society. This chapter discusses the barriers that have historically limited the social mobility of women, while examining the current trend where women in academia are currently obtaining advanced degrees than men which positions them to potentially challenge the glass ceiling. Historical literature will be reviewed to highlight the persistent issues resulting in a very low number of women in leadership positions in the United States. Additionally, contemporary literature will be analyzed the impact of a greater number of women in the workforce with the skills and abilities and yet lacking opportunities to crash the proverbial ‘glass ceiling.'