Researchers at the University of Exeter, working with the British Veterinary Association, surveyed approximately 260 UK-based employers, partners, and managers to see whether they would show bias when reviewing the work record of male and female vets.

The experimental study asked respondents to review a performance evaluation of a veterinarian identified as either “Mark” or “Elisabeth.” The evaluation report was exactly the same.

Differences in the treatment of the male and female evaluations were most evident and systematic among those who believed female vets no longer experience discrimination. Altogether, 44% of respondents held this belief, of whom 66% were male. Those who held this belief offered “Mark” a significantly higher salary than “Elizabeth.” 

Those who believe female vets no longer experience discrimination also perceived “Mark” as significantly more competent than “Elizabeth.” This group also perceived “Mark” as being more competent and would be be more likely to let this vet take on more managerial responsibilities, more strongly encourage them to pursue promotions, and be more likely to advise other vets to look to this vet as a valuable source of knowledge. 

However, those who believed female vets still experience the negative impact of gender biases and discrimination showed little to no difference in how they perceived or treated “Mark” versus “Elizabeth”.

Read more about this study.