Gregor Pfeifer, University of Sydney - The Evolution of the Gender Aspiration Gap: Evidence from 50 Years of Alpine Skiing

Title: The Evolution of the Gender Aspiration Gap: Evidence from 50 Years of Alpine Skiing

Abstract:  We investigate the evolution of the gender aspiration gap over a time span of 50 years, linking an unexpected achievement of an alpine skiing athlete to the behavioural responses of their peers. Using unique granular data, we find that male athletes are engaging in much higher risk-taking behaviour once a peer experiences a surprise success. Female athletes do not react at all. In turn, male athletes achieve better final positions. At the same time, however, they exhibit a greater propensity for failure, such as dropping out due to an accident. Both performance measures remain unchanged for females.

Presenter: Gregor Pfeifer, University of Sydney

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