A Phenomenological Examination of Barriers and Motivators Experienced by Women as Elected Members of Legislative Positions in British Columbia

Despite concerted attempts to achieve parity, women occupy a minority of elected government positions in most countries. The barriers women encounter in pursuing elected office have drawn considerable research attention. Less is known about what motivates women to run for office. This phenomenological study used semistructured interviews with 24 members of the British Columbia legislature, 12 women and 12 men, to address the primary research question involving understanding the factors that enhance or limit women's motivation to seek elected office in the provincial government of British Columbia. Data analysis strategies included grouping significant statements found in the interview data into meaning units or themes. Results confirmed other research findings that women face significant barriers in seeking election to public office, different from those faced by men. Findings showed that motivation to pursue public office was enhanced by the influence of family, school, and mentorship. Personality traits such as strong work ethic, trustworthiness, and the ability to connect to the public were also identified as contributing to electoral success. Recommendations include increasing curricular and extracurricular activities related to politics and establishing robust mentorship programs for women considering elected office. This study can effect social change by enlarging an understanding of what motivates women to run for office and what obstacles they encounter. The results could help reduce the gender disparity in elected office and bring government closer to full representation.