Current Perceptions of Issues Related to Women Employed in Public Accounting

A study was undertaken to gather information about the perceptions of public accounting professionals on a number of important issues related to women accountants. A questionnaire was mailed to 400 women and 400 men selected from the most recent Membership Directory of the AICPA (1985). The overall response rate was 44.8%. The questionnaire included 4 major categories of questions: 1. opportunity and treatment of women, 2. acceptance and commitment of women, 3. possible special accommodations for women, and 4. reasons why women leave public accounting. The results of this study, reported in total and by gender grouping, suggest that there are some areas of the personnel management function that may need additional consideration. Firms should consider making accommodations, such as flexible hours and reduced travel, because these options received strong support from female respondents.