This study reviews historical current factors limiting Puerto Rican women in the area of educational preparation and in the island\u27s work force. Attitudes are identified in Puerto Rican society as well as reactions to the increasing role of women in the island\u27s work force. Three questions guided this study. (1) Is there evidence in the history of Puerto Rico indicating discrimination of women at work? (2) Have educational opportunities promoted or limited the participation of women in the island\u27s labor force? (3) Are Puerto Ricans\u27 attitudes obstacles deterring women from entry into occupations or professions traditionally male dominated? An instrument designed, tested and applied randomly on a cross section of voters in Jayuya and in Precinct Two of San Juan, provided a 68.66% return. After a careful analysis of the findings of the study the following conclusions could be made. (1) There is clear evidence in the history of Puerto Rico indicating discrimination towards women in the work place. This is evident in a perusal of the island\u27s political, economic, social and educational history. An analysis of data gathered by governmental agencies and findings of studies done by private and public work places show a limited number of higher management positions held by women. Prevalent discrimination is evident by the need to pass laws to protect the rights of women and to eliminate gender bias in the work place. The low representation of women in administrative positions as well as in legislative, judicial and other jobs in government, have further limited professional growth for women. (2) Even when educational opportunities for women have advanced their participation in the labor force, they have served to limit their participation in the work force by leading them into jobs and professions that are extensions of traditional roles. (3) Beliefs persist that minimize the capabilities and potentials of women, creating low expectations of their contributions to the labor force. This attitude plays a negative role in educational practices resulting in additional discrimination against women in Puerto Rico
