Beyond the maternal. Gender and legitimation of educational professionalism of women workers in communities for Unaccompanied Foreign Minors. The outcomes of a study conducted in Bologna

Abstract

The article examines gender-based educational and occupational segregation in Italy, focusing on Bologna and the education sector. Data reveal a paradox: women are more educated but less employed, lower paid, and more likely to experience involuntary part-time work. Significant inequalities persist in academic pathways and careers, not attributable to differences in merit or productivity.
A key issue is the strong feminization of education studies and the marginal presence of men in this field. A qualitative
study with educators and unaccompanied migrant minors highlights gender asymmetries and fragile professional identities. Processes of “maternalization” of educational roles emerge, contributing to de-professionalization and devaluation of care work. he article highlights the need to rethink the value of education as an autonomous professional practice, overcoming gender stereotypes and recognizing specific pedagogical competencies.