According to Rutgers University researchers Julie Phelan and Laurie Rudman, there’s a pernicious double standard when it comes to certain leadership behaviors. Being forceful, assertive, and commanding–attributes stereotypical of male leaders–tends to be viewed positively when exhibited by men in positions of authority but negatively when women leaders take on those traits. Instead, they’re seen as brusque and overbearing, which makes it harder for them to achieve the kinds of results that (other barriers notwithstanding) might help them advance. Read the article
