A STATISTICAL STUDY OF WORKPLACE DISCRIMINATION STRAIN THEORY AND JOB SATISFACTION AMONG YOUNG LAWYERS IN OKARA

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of workplace discrimination on job satisfaction among young lawyers in Okara Pakistan, through the lens of General Strain Theory (GST). Focusing particularly on gender-based differences the research examines how stressors such as harassment, exclusion, toxic work environments and unequal opportunities affect job satisfaction and performance especially for female lawyers. A sample of 446 lawyers from Depalpur, Renala Khurd and Okara Bar Councils was surveyed using a structured questionnaire with a five-point Likert scale. The study applied statistical techniques including descriptive analysis, regression, two-way ANOVA and multivariate General Linear Models using SPSS, AMOS and RStudio. Results indicate a significant relationship between workplace discrimination and gender-specific job satisfaction. Female lawyers reported higher exposure to harassment, low income and fewer growth opportunities contributing to elevated stress and job dissatisfaction. While job satisfaction showed a stronger statistical impact on gender than discrimination alone both variables were found to influence workplace well-being. Regression analysis suggested a minimal direct effect of discrimination on gender indicating the role of complex mediating factors. Multivariate tests revealed that while overall job satisfaction significantly correlates with gendered experiences internal consistency across measured variables was relatively low suggesting nuanced and subjective perceptions of discrimination. This study validates GST as an effective theoretical framework for analyzing occupational stress and its outcomes. The findings underscore the need for institutional reforms in the legal sector to address gender-based disparities and promote equitable work environments. The research provides critical insights into the professional challenges faced by young lawyers and highlights the urgency of developing supportive policies for enhancing job satisfaction and reducing discriminatory practices.