ABSTRACT
The traditional Japanese saying 'Being Different is a Very Difficult Row to Hoe' describes women in academic jobs. They Eire 'double deviants', not only working in a male dominated world, but also expecting to receive equitable recognition. They are privileged in comparison with most women, but not in comparison with men. Women who are in a small minority experience all the problems of discrimination and isolation characteristic of groups in similar positions. Women academics report greater social isolation than men, and they are less integrated into university departments. Women report more difficulties with relationships with colleagues, and more leave their positions because of negative relationships. One strategy that women academics employ leads them to strive to be incredibly conscientious and dedicated, putting excess pressure on themselves. Within the academic profession, women suffer from a lack of role models and informal support systems, which play a major role in enhancing reputations and status, and inducting academics into the reward system.
