Sixty-two women in the first to fourth year of an apprenticeship in various traditionally male-dominated trades described their experiences at trade school and their responses to the generally oppressive environment. Although some teachers and male classmates were supportive, most were not and the women were isolated, verbally abused and sexually and physically harassed. A macho-male atmosphere existed where women were not wanted and were not regarded as competent. The women felt excluded from male groups and were under pressure to perform. The women were strong-minded, resilient and successful and felt competent and able to fit in with the men. Most support came from parents. The cultural background of the ‘tradesman’ was discussed to help understand why the women were treated in such a discriminatory way in the trade school classes.
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