Gatrell (2004) found hidden discrimination where women were labelled 'jelly heads' and faced downgrading, especially when requesting flexible hours. What does this imply?

• A. It was legal
• B. It was rare
• C. Women would be deterred from challenging discrimination
• D. Downgrading actually increased promotions

Answer: (C)

The idea being explored is that discrimination can be hidden and exert a chilling effect, discouraging people from challenging unfair treatment. Gatrell’s finding that women were labeled in belittling terms and faced downgrading—particularly when requesting flexible hours—shows how bias can operate quietly in everyday work life. This isn’t about whether discrimination is legal or rare; it’s about how such treatment can push women to stay silent or withdraw from pursuing fairer conditions or advancement. If asking for flexible work leads to downgrading, women may fear retaliation, damage to their reputation, or slower career progress, so they choose not to challenge the discrimination. In short, the implication is that women would be deterred from challenging discriminatory practices.