A Qualitative Study Of Women In Student Government At A Midsize Comprehensive University

Abstract

The present qualitative case study examined women's participation in student government at a mid-size comprehensive university of 12,000 students, with a focus on either their leadership experiences in student government or lack thereof. A review of literature revealed that for women to succeed in male driven atmospheres a female role model was necessary to help combat both negative perceptions of female leader stereotypes and perceptions that men traditionally hold leadership roles.

Seven female students who are either currently serving or had recently served on student government were interviewed for the study. Students were interviewed about their participation and perceptions about student government both as leaders and senators, their perception of their male peers, and why their female peers did not participate as either senators or leaders within student government.

Findings indicated that while the idea of men traditionally serving in leadership roles still survives, there is a possibility of change. The men may still currently participate more visibly, but in the current student government it is not because women feel at a disadvantage. Having a sitting female Student Body President serves as a female role model, which could improve the chance of greater female participation.

Date of Award	2010
Original language	American English
Awarding Institution	Eastern Illinois University
Supervisor	Charles G Eberly (Supervisor)