Behind a Masculine Space: The Experiences of Women in Male-Dominated Environments in the State of Qatar

Abstract

Background: The experiences of women, especially those in male-dominated environments in Qatar, may either be positive or negative. It is an arising topic in the 21st century to hopefully remediate gendered barriers and acknowledge womens struggles in the workplace. Method: This research utilizes a qualitative approach specifically, it uses the phenomenological approach to deeply understand the participants experiences, which are Filipina workers who are working in male-dominated environments. The phenomenology aims to answer the central question: What are the experiences of Filipina migrant workers in a male-dominated profession?. The researchers used 25 semi-structured interview questions to obtain the data needed, transcribing, and analyzing the studys themes. Findings: Findings show that we can categorize the lived experiences of Filipina workers in male-dominated environments into four main themes: Cultural Adaptation, Foreign Circumstances, Work Difficulties, and Professional Adjustments. Women in male-dominated environments face various challenges however, these challenges are vital in helping women adapt to their work environment and succeed. Conclusion:Women have been eradicating gender norms and are fighting to normalize treating men and women as equals in the workforce, despite these gendered barriers. Recommendation:The paper recommends interviewing female migrant workers with diverse nationalities and focusing on females specific work and working status in different male-dominated institutions.