(In)voluntary association - A multilevel analysis of gender segregation involuntary organizations

Using a unique data set, the author investigates gender segregation in volu ntary organizations. Results indicate that (I) women are more likely than m en to belong to gender-segregated groups and (2) women's groups primarily r estrict members to contact with persons of the same age, education, and mar ital and work status. The article ends with a discussion of how segregated voluntary associations help perpetuate a social world that is substantially ordered by gender.