Gender Based Discriminatory Human Resource Practices: An Identification of the Etiological Factors and its Remedies

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of the study is to identify HR based gender discriminatory issues. It is a cross-sectional study conducted in Pakistani context specifically in the Universities of Karachi. This study is conducted in six phases. Method: This research utilizes pragmatism philosophy. The researcher has adopted subjective and objective both point of views. The research approach used in this research is inductive in phase one and deductive in phase two, three and four. The research strategy employed is survey and mix method research is conducted. This cross-sectional survey comprises of 6 Phases. Findings: In phase one etiological factors of gender discrimination are explored using inductive type of multi method quantitative approach. Using Grounded theory technique, in-depth interviews and focus group technique have also been used along with that observation technique is also used to find out the ground realities. In phase two the findings of phase one have been tested objectively using hypothetico-deductive method. Discriminant analysis is done to find out the factors towards discrimination. The findings show that there is significant difference of procedural justice, informational justice, distributive justice, interactional justice, behavioural ethics and salary across the genders. Discriminant function is also derived in this phase. In phase three the theory is developed by the researcher using structural equation modelling and the impact of gender discriminatory HR practices on job satisfaction is tested quantitatively using deductive technique. Practical implications: This study is useful for HR practitioners because discrimination decreases the efficiency and productivity levels of employees. HR must formulate such policies that help the organizations to minimize or eliminate discriminatory HR practices at workplace.

Social Implications: This paper is highly useful for HR practitioners, human rights organizations since it is also useful to save human rights. Limitations: Time, finances and geographical limitations Originality/value: The study is of great value to HR practitioners and human right workers. Keywords: Gender, discrimination, culture, Human resource practices.