Gender matters: A study on job satisfaction in the dynamic environment of ecuadorian startups
Journal
Environment and Social Psychology
ISSN
2424-8975
Date Issued
2025-11-04
Author(s)
Abstract
Job satisfaction is a key driver of organizational effectiveness, influencing productivity, employee retention, and overall workplace well-being. While extensive research exists in developed economies, there is limited evidence on how gender differences influence job satisfaction in the entrepreneurial ecosystems of emerging countries.
This study examines gender-based variations in job satisfaction among 399 entrepreneurs from Ecuadorian startups operating in the production, commerce, services, and gastronomy sectors. A quantitative, cross-sectional design was employed, utilizing a structured questionnaire based on a multidimensional framework comprising five dimensions: work content, working conditions, remuneration, teamwork, and well-being.
Descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and correlation analyses were conducted.
The results reveal significant gender differences in autonomy, task meaning, and task identification (work content); hygiene, aesthetics, and ergonomics (working conditions); sufficiency and equity (remuneration); and work schedule (well-being). In contrast, teamwork-related variables showed no significant disparities, suggesting that the collaborative culture of startups may buffer against traditional gender gaps.
The findings extend organizational behavior and social psychology literature by providing empirical evidence from a Latin American entrepreneurial ecosystem, highlighting the role of socio-cultural norms, domestic responsibilities, and sectoral conditions in shaping job satisfaction. From a managerial perspective, the study highlights the importance of equity-oriented policies—such as transparent remuneration systems, ergonomic workplace design, and flexible scheduling—to promote inclusive, sustainable, and competitive startup environments.</jats:p>
This study examines gender-based variations in job satisfaction among 399 entrepreneurs from Ecuadorian startups operating in the production, commerce, services, and gastronomy sectors. A quantitative, cross-sectional design was employed, utilizing a structured questionnaire based on a multidimensional framework comprising five dimensions: work content, working conditions, remuneration, teamwork, and well-being.
Descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and correlation analyses were conducted.
The results reveal significant gender differences in autonomy, task meaning, and task identification (work content); hygiene, aesthetics, and ergonomics (working conditions); sufficiency and equity (remuneration); and work schedule (well-being). In contrast, teamwork-related variables showed no significant disparities, suggesting that the collaborative culture of startups may buffer against traditional gender gaps.
The findings extend organizational behavior and social psychology literature by providing empirical evidence from a Latin American entrepreneurial ecosystem, highlighting the role of socio-cultural norms, domestic responsibilities, and sectoral conditions in shaping job satisfaction. From a managerial perspective, the study highlights the importance of equity-oriented policies—such as transparent remuneration systems, ergonomic workplace design, and flexible scheduling—to promote inclusive, sustainable, and competitive startup environments.</jats:p>