Analyzing "Queen Bee Syndrome" in the Context of Women's Leadership and Managerial Roles through Empirical Research

Abstract

The Queen Bee Syndrome, is described as the senior women in leadership and management positions exhibiting hostile behavior and damage the advancement of other women in their career. It has been an issue of significant concern and research. This qualitative study meant to examine the effect of the” Queen Bee Syndrome” on women's career progression. To gain in-depth understanding into their personal experiences and perceptions of the Queen Bee Syndrome, the semi-structured interviews were conducted with 48 women employed in various positions in public sector women universities of Pakistan. Thematic analysis of the obtained data established several themes, which revealed that the Queen Bee Syndrome has a damaging effect on women's career headway. The participants (72.9 %) informed experiencing various forms of oppression, and withholding of growth and advancement opportunities. Such behavior contributed to a toxic work environment, leading to reduced job satisfaction, increased stress and weakened aspirations among women.