Women in Authority: A Sociopsychological Analysis

The attempt to reduce discrimination against women in work settings has received new strength from the re-emergent feminist movement. Women are now more often being considered for positions of genuine organizational authority. We present and analyze a case example--a woman manager and her staff within a mental health center--that illustrates some basic problems arising from such social change. Our approach to the exercise of authority is sociopsychological: We seek to interrelate organizational structure, leadership style, and staff group dynamics.