Unveiling Discrepancies: An Analysis of Women's Current and Preferred Workplace

Author: Carrillo Siller, Karen Ivanna. MS

Institution: Purdue University

Degree Received: August 2024

Title: Unveiling Discrepancies- An Analysis of Women’s Current and Preferred Workplace

Committee Co-Chairs: Maria I. Marshall & Roberto Gallardo

This study investigates current and preferred workplace mismatches in the North Central Region, particularly the degree of mismatch in the female population. We hypothesize that asymmetric unemployment threats boosted by the COVID-19 economic shutdown, and caregiving or household increased burdens forced vulnerable groups (including women) of the workforce to work in locations that unequaled their real workplace preference. To test this hypothesis, we apply two multinomial logistic (MNL) regressions using secondary survey data to obtain likelihood and percentage point effects of individual attributes. We estimate that despite showing a 68% probability of working at the office, there exists only an 48% probability that individuals prefer such work location. Furthermore, we find that women have 3.3 percentage points (pp) higher probability of currently working remotely than men and show the greatest preference for this work arrangement; despite gender having no effect in current work site, women have 11.8pp lower probability of preferring in-person work than men, where younger women have no observed preference between work arrangements. Additionally, control variables showed that other greatly mismatched populations include rural residents, and low remote potential occupation workers. Main attributes such as gender and adult caregiving accessibility shape preferences, whereas educational attainment, household income, and occupation define current worksite. These results highlight the importance of flexible work arrangements in the American economy and their ever-greater inclination between members of the workforce, despite lack of greater opportunities, policies, and regulations.