Performance Evaluation Narratives of Navy Women and Men: An Examination for Bias in Promotion

摘要

The narrative sections of performance ratings for 52 men and 52 women eligible for promotion to chief petty officer were analyzed to determine whether statements included in the narrative section or the manner in which the statements were interpreted by the selection board were subject to sex bias. Results showed that there was no significant difference in the number of positive statements made on the performance of men and women. However, significant interactions between sex and selection status (selected for promotion or not selected) were found in two evaluation categories: (1) Motivation and personality traits and (2) dimensions of concern to the Navy (awards, oral communication skills, appearance). Women who were not selected had more positive statements related to motivation and personality than did either men or women who were selected, indicating that positive performance in this dimension did not enhance promotion prospects. Men who were not selected had more positive statements on dimensions of concern to the Navy than did men who were selected. (Author)