Women in Brazilian Politics: An Investigation into Adaptation to a Masculinized Culture, Intragroup Comparison, and the Perpetuation of Gender Hierarchy
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Abstract
Objective: investigate the extent to which women working in the Brazilian political field adhere to the characteristics of the queen bee phenomenon (QBP), specifically analyzing the traits of adherence to a masculinized culture, intragroup comparison, and the maintenance of gender hierarchy. Methods: this is a qualitative study; 40 semi-structured interviews were conducted with women active in the political context. Results: the analysis, using Gioia’s method, confirms the first hypothesis, indicating that women adopt masculinized behaviors influenced by the political context and the pressure exerted by stereotypes. However, the second and third hypotheses were refuted, demonstrating that women do not make comparisons of high commitment and professional sacrifices within groups, and the interviewees do not legitimize gender hierarchy, as they recognize discrimination and defend affirmative action policies. Conclusions: thus, although the political environment is predominantly male and competitive, the results question the occurrence of the QBP. The findings highlight the importance of raising awareness about gender bias as an inhibiting factor of the phenomenon. Furthermore, the study cautiously conducts a comparative analysis between the Brazilian reality and that of other Latin American countries.
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