Berufsflucht der Journalistinnen? Geschlechterunterschiede beim Ausstieg aus dem Journalismus

Given increasingly precarious working conditions, persistent gender discrimination, and growing concerns about a shortage of skilled labor in journalism, this study explores gender-specific reasons for leaving the profession. Drawing on turnover theory, it investigates whether and how men and women differ in their motivations for exiting journalism. The analysis is based on 38 problem-centered interviews with former professional journalists from various media outlets and employment backgrounds, including 19 women. The findings indicate that poor working conditions, incompatibility with family life, and age discrimination are cited by both male and female respondents. However, a clear asymmetry emerges: only the female interviewees reported experiences of limited career advancement and gender-based discrimination. The gendered exodus poses a risk to diversity in journalism and may lead to a decline in female representation in media coverage. The study concludes by emphasizing the need for media organizations to implement measures that retain diverse journalistic talent and uphold journalism’s democratic function.