Application of the Theory of Relative Deprivation to Occupational Discrimination against Women

Abstract

The theory of relative deprivation was tested by studying work satisfaction of white teachers, with women teachers representing an occupationally deprived group. Hypotheses were derived from Davis' (1959) theory of relative deprivation and from Crosby's (1976) extension of this theory. These were tested by applying the Job Description Index of Smith et at. (1969) and two personality measures to 100 female and 83 male teachers. Some of the predicted negative correlations between work satisfaction and both salary and teaching experience were found for junior women teachers, but not for those in senior posts. The predicted differences in work satisfaction between male and female teachers were also found only for junior teachers. These results partially support Davis' theory, but also point to one of its weaknesses. No support was found for Crosby's extension of the theory to include the effects of personality variables.