Breaking the Blueprint: Unveiling Cognitive Biases Affecting Professional Women in Construction

Abstract

The global construction industry is facing a skills shortage. Researchers explore the potential of leveraging women as untapped resources to tackle this issue. However, barriers hinder women's entry and career advancement within the construction sector. While past research on women in construction has highlighted the obstacles and challenges, it often overlooks the underlying stereotypes and cognitive biases contributing to these issues. In this systematic review, we aim to bridge that gap by analysing 85 journal articles published between 2015 and 2024 in reputable journals to examine the effects of cognitive biases that present as challenges and barriers faced by women professionals in the construction industry. The investigation of three key variables, factors, cognitive biases, and their impacts emphasises three aspects: the self-perpetuating nature of biases, factors that trigger these biases on personal and societal levels, and distinct consequences of biases on the industry culture for women.

Furthermore, the study offers insights for policymakers and analysts to develop strategies and frameworks aimed at mitigating the influence of biases and factors, thereby promoting women's retention and reducing barriers to employment. The novelty of this study lies in examining the unique intersection of cognitive biases and their effects on women in the construction sector, a topic that remains underexplored. This research is pioneering in its approach to identifying multiple cognitive biases, factors, and impacts using innovative methods, revealing the intricate biases that affect women professionals at various career stages in the construction industry.