A new study led by Christina Proctor, clinical associate professor at the University of Georgia College of Public Health, has identified key stressors facing women farmers, highlighting their experiences in a male-dominated occupation.
Through a series of structured interviews with a sample of women farm owners, the study authors found several different stress factors affecting women’s experiences in farming that are not commonly reported among their male counterparts, including the toll of animal mortality and succession planning. As agriculture is a historically male-dominated field, women farmers frequently reported stress associated with gender-stereotyping and role expectations.
To cope with these unique stressors, many women participants reported behavioral adaptions such as adopting masculine traits, dressing differently, overworking, or overcompensating, which could lead to internal conflict and higher stress levels beyond the everyday challenges facing all farmers.
The authors highlight that despite these difficulties, many women participants took pride in defying expectations and succeeding in a male-dominated industry. The research team believes more research is needed to collect data on women farmers’ experiences and identify methods to increase diversity in the agriculture field.
Dr. Proctor holds a bachelor’s degree, a master of public health degree, and a Ph.D. in health promotion and behavior, all from the University of Georgia.