Women in the Business and Office Occupations as Depicted in the American Novel: 1890-1950.

This study analyzes the portrayal of women in business in popular novels between 1890 and 1950. A comprehensive list of novels depicting secretaries and salesgirls as major characters was developed, and a questionnaire was used to collect and organize data. The characters were analyzed in terms of: background, achievement in their vocations, attitudes toward their vocations, attitudes toward marriage, attitudes of their supervisors and co-workers, and attitudes of their families. A stereotype of women in business was identified. First, women are confined to low-paying, low-status jobs. Second, women who get married and give up their jobs conform to others' expectations. Third, marriage is a full-time occupation. The stereotype of women in business reveals popular attitudes. Even though social and economic conditions have created unprecedented educational and work opportunities, women are still affected by sex-role stereotypes which limit their aspirations and their achievement in business. (Author)