The impact of societal expectations and the gender pay gap

Golden highlighted that societal expectations and outdated rules played a significant role in limiting women's career choices and labor force participation. Marriage often led to termination of employment for women in certain roles, discouraging their long-term workforce commitment. Additionally, women's education choices were influenced by the belief that they would have to drop out of the workforce after marriage. However, as times changed and opportunities grew, women's expectations and choices began to shift. The rise of contraceptive methods also allowed women to delay marriage and invest in their education and careers. Despite progress, the gender pay gap persists due to the unequal burden of childcare responsibilities and the prevalence of 'greedy work,' where longer working hours lead to disproportionate rewards.