Keywords
Menopause, workplace discrimination, disclosure, organizational culture, supervisor gender, workplaceMenopause, workplace discrimination, disclosure, organizational culture, supervisor gender, workplace
Abstract
Menopause is a universal developmental transition for women that often coincides with peak career years, yet it remains underexamined in organizational research and is frequently treated as a private or taboo workplace topic. This lack of visibility shapes whether women feel able to disclose menopause-related challenges, seek accommodations, and access organizational support. Drawing on literature related to pregnancy and motherhood discrimination, menopause stereotypes, and disclosure literature, this study examines how symptom burden, ideal worker norms, and stigma-related identity management contribute to anticipated workplace discrimination and disclosure decisions. Data were collected via an online survey of 106 working women recruited through social media. Measures assessed menopausal experiences at work, family supportive supervisor behaviors, and anticipated discrimination. Results indicated that higher levels of FSSB were associated with lower anticipated discrimination and greater likelihood of disclosure. These findings highlight the critical role of supervisory support in shaping menopause-related workplace experiences. By identifying modifiable organizational factors, this research offers practical implications for developing supervisor training and supportive workplace policies aimed at reducing stigma, encouraging disclosure, and improving long-term retention and well-being for women navigating menopause at work.
Thesis Completion Year
2026
Thesis Completion Semester
Spring
Thesis Chair
Mottarella, Karen
College
College of Sciences
Department
Psychology
Thesis Discipline
Psychology
Language
English
Access Status
Open Access
Length of Campus Access
None
Campus Location
Orlando (Main) Campus
STARS Citation
Furbish, Alysia, "Discomfort in silence: Investigating workplace discrimination in relation to employee disclosure of menopausal health issues" (2026). Honors Undergraduate Theses. 652.
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/hut2024/652
Accessibility Statement
This item was created or digitized prior to April 24, 2027, or is a reproduction of legacy media created before that date. It is preserved in its original, unmodified state specifically for research, reference, or historical recordkeeping. In accordance with the ADA Title II Final Rule, the University Libraries provides accessible versions of archival materials upon request. To request an accommodation for this item, please submit an accessibility request form.
Rights Statement
