Systematic Review of Highly Educated Career-Interrupted Women: Implications for Women in Managerial and Clerical Roles

This study analyzed the trends in research on highly educated women experiencing a career interruption in South Korea, focusing on the articles published in KCI-listed academic journals from 2007 to 2023. The related factors and implications for women in managerial and clerical positions were also examined. The study’ findings were as follows.: An analysis of 28 articles on highly educated women with career interruptions assessed the publication trends, research topics, study subjects, data collection methods, research methodologies, and the application of career interruption theories. Research publications have grown steadily since 2007, with studies predominantly addressing topics (78.5%) and subjects (68.0%) related to highly educated women. Five data collection methods were identified, with interviews being the most common (39.4%). Among the four methodology types, qualitative research was used most frequently (42.9%). Regarding theoretical frameworks, role theory was the most frequently applied, appearing in 14 articles. Second, the factors associated with highly educated women’s career interruptions were categorized into four domains: causes and triggers, outcomes and impacts, policies and systems, and re-employment factors. The causes and triggers included personal factors, such as education level, age, traditional gender roles, and growth mindset, along with familial and structural factors. The outcomes and impacts included personal challenges such as psychological difficulties, reduced life satisfaction, and identity confusion, as well as familial and structural influences. In addition, policy-related factors and re-employment factors were identified as critical for addressing career interruptions. These results emphasizes the need for increased societal attention to promote the economic participation of highly educated women and offers practical insights for addressing career interruptions among women in managerial and clerical roles.