Internalized Patriarchy and Career Ambition Among Filipina Gen Z Professionals

Gender inequality continues to affect women’s career advancement, particularly through internalized sociocultural beliefs that shape professional aspirations. This study examined the relationship between internalized patriarchal beliefs and career ambition among Filipina Generation Z professionals in Metro Manila. Using a quantitative correlational research design, data were collected from 100 purposively selected respondents through standardized instruments, including the Gender Role Beliefs Scale (GRBS) and the Career Aspiration Scale (CAS). Descriptive statistics and Pearson product–moment correlation were utilized to analyze the data. Results revealed that respondents exhibited low levels of internalized patriarchal beliefs and high levels of career ambition, suggesting increasing alignment with egalitarian gender perspectives and strong professional motivation. Furthermore, a statistically significant but weak negative relationship (r = –0.27, p = .006) was found between internalized patriarchal beliefs and career ambition. This indicates that patriarchal beliefs modestly reduce career ambition. Although the relationship was modest, the findings highlight the role of internalized beliefs as a psychological factor influencing women’s professional goals. The study concludes that Filipina Gen Z professionals demonstrate resilience and ambition despite lingering sociocultural influences. Implications support the development of gender-inclusive policies, psychological empowerment initiatives, and leadership programs that address both internal and external barriers, contributing to Sustainable Development Goal 5 (Gender Equality).