Gendered social norms and female entrepreneurs: A comparative analysis of Japan and worldwide

• In Event: 30821 - Open Refereed Roundtables
  In Refereed Roundtable (90 minute): Table 2

Abstract

This study aimed to conduct a comparative analysis of the influence of gendered social norms and values on women’s entrepreneurial activities between Japan and the world. This research was inspired by the continuous trend of high gender gaps, particularly in the fields of politics and economy, which includes employment and visible low representation of entrepreneurs in Japanese society. A qualitative design using the survey data consisting of international and governmental statistics and recent media reports was employed. Data and research analyzing female entrepreneurs in countries whose female entrepreneurial activities are low, including Japan, is scarce. To determine whether any country specific factors have caused women’s low participation in economic and entrepreneurial activities, the study analyzed the interconnection among a country’s economic development path and characteristics, national gendered social norms, and values. Findings revealed that the Japanese employment system, which brought Japan economic success from the 1960s to the 1970s, still exists with certain changes. The economic development based on the growth of the production industries also created hierarchical and rigid management styles and strong gendered division of labor in society. Subsequently, two important and strong social norms, that is, 1) the ideal and proper career path as an employed person by a renowned company, and 2) gender norms that regard men as the core of the formal economy and society while viewing women as peripheral and believing that they should support men continue to impact society. These social norms influence women’s perceptions and regulate female entrepreneurial activities. As Japan’s case indicates, it is important to analyze the relationship among the economic, social system, and national culture to better understand women’s entrepreneurial activities.

Author

• Kuniko Ishiguro, Tokyo International University