Gender Microaggressions: An Examination of Existing Research on the Experiences of Female Band Directors

Abstract

Women continue to be statistical minorities in the field of secondary band teaching, and past researchers have described the unique challenges and struggles of female band directors. Many of these experiences can be uniquely understood through the lens of gender microaggressions. In this literature review, I provide an overview of the various types of gender microaggressions with corresponding examples documented in existing research on the experiences of female band directors. Based on this analysis, I suggest gender microaggressions are an issue in the field of secondary band teaching and conclude by discussing possible ways to combat gender microaggressions and make the secondary band profession more equitable for women.