05 Dec WHAT IS A SHE-CESSION AND ARE WE STARING ONE DOWN IN THE WORKFORCE?
The term “she-cession” refers to an economic downturn that disproportionately affects women, particularly in terms of job loss, income, and career disruption. Unlike past recessions that typically hit male-dominated industries like manufacturing and construction hardest, a she-cession occurs when sectors that employ large numbers of women — such as healthcare, education, hospitality, and retail — experience the greatest impact.
The concept gained widespread attention during the COVID-19 pandemic, when millions of women around the world lost their jobs or were forced to leave the workforce due to layoffs, business closures, or increased caregiving responsibilities at home. In the United States, for example, women — especially women of color — experienced steeper employment declines than men, marking a historic reversal in typical recession trends.
Sample Characteristics of a She-cession
Job Loss in Female-Dominated Sectors
Industries like childcare, hospitality, and retail — where women make up the majority of workers — often suffer the most during a she-cession.Increased Caregiving Burdens
With schools and daycare centers closed, many women take on full-time caregiving roles, forcing them to reduce hours or exit the workforce entirely.Widening Gender Inequality
A she-cession can reverse decades of progress toward gender equality in the labor force by increasing the gender pay gap and lowering women’s long-term earnings potential.Mental and Emotional Toll
The stress of juggling work, home-schooling, and caregiving often leads to burnout and mental health challenges for women during economic downturns.
Why It Matters
Understanding the dynamics of a she-cession is critical for shaping equitable economic policies. Recovery efforts must consider targeted support for women — such as paid family leave, affordable childcare, flexible work policies, and gender-sensitive job creation — to rebuild a more inclusive economy.
The she-cession highlights not only the vulnerabilities women face during crises, but also the essential roles they play in both the paid workforce and unpaid care economy. Recognizing and addressing these challenges is vital to achieving a more balanced and resilient recovery.
