Unconscious Gender bias Among Seafarers: A Review of the Theoretical Literature

Abstract

This systematic literature review explores the concept of unconscious gender bias within the maritime industry, focusing specifically on seafarers. Unconscious bias refers to implicit stereotypes and attitudes that influence decision-making processes without conscious awareness. In the context of seafaring, where diverse crews operate in confined spaces for extended periods, understanding and addressing unconscious bias becomes crucial for fostering inclusive and harmonious shipboard environments and mitigating gender bias. The review begins by examining theoretical frameworks related to unconscious bias, drawing from psychological, organizational behavior, and maritime literature. Various models, such as the Implicit Association Test (IAT) and social cognitive theories, are explored to provide a foundation for understanding how biases develop and manifest among seafaring populations. The maritime industry’s unique characteristics, including hierarchical structures, cultural diversity, and isolation during voyages, are analyzed to identify specific factors that may contribute to the emergence of unconscious biases. Additionally, the review delves into studies addressing the impact of biases on decision-making, communication, and overall team dynamics within the maritime context. Furthermore, the review explores interventions and best practices proposed in the literature to mitigate unconscious bias among seafarers. Training programs, diversity initiatives, and cultural awareness campaigns are examined for their effectiveness in promoting a more inclusive and equitable maritime workplace. Based on this review, we conceptualize unconscious gender bias as a socio-technical problem and propose a theoretical framework that offers a combination of technological, organizational, and societal approaches as well as three main propositions to possibly mitigate the biased effects. Lastly, this paper considers future research on the management of unconscious gender bias in the organizational context.