For Better or For Worse: Experiences of Men in Caring Occupations

This qualitative study of 35 Danish men working within caring occupations
shows that gender plays a significant role when men choose a career
path that is dominated by women. As a gender minority, the men experience
both privileges and negative discrimination. Being highly visible
simply because they are men, they find it easier to have their achievements
noticed and praised, while their mistakes are not easy to hide.
These men have good career opportunities, but at the same time feel pressured
to rise as far up the career ladder as possible. They are accorded
more authority than their female colleagues and find it easier to influence
others. However, they are expected to take charge and to accept a role as
protector. They are popular amongst their female colleagues, but also victims
of prejudice, in that they are suspected of being gay, both at work
and generally.