Gender in Dirty Work: A systematic literature review

Abstract

For most individuals work is an integral part of life that serves the dual purpose of safeguarding survival and contributing to their self-defining process. However, through the ages society has created a clear division of what constitutes good and bad work (dirty work). This paper aims to locate gender equality in the discourse of what has been termed dirty work. It will argue that whilst we have made formidable strides in the equality of the sexes in the workplace, we must undoubtedly acknowledge that we still have a lot of work cut out for us. Ultimately, it is my aim to produce a systematic literature review that argues that this rings particularly true in the context of dirty work. It will therefore attempt to formulate a comprehensive understanding of the effect of being a woman in occupations that are marginalized and looked down upon by society. It will identify the gaps that need to be addressed through reviewing literature regarding gender and dirty work.