A company is assessing its pay structure and finds that women in similar roles as men earn consistently lower salaries, despite having comparable qualifications and experience. Which of the following categories best describes the reasons for this disparity?

The situation described shows a gender wage gap, which means that women are paid less than men for doing similar jobs, even when they have the same skills and experience. This disparity often arises from various factors, including discrimination, societal norms, and differing negotiation practices. For example, if a company tends to value male employees more highly or if women are less likely to negotiate their salaries, this can lead to lower pay for women. Additionally, if there are fewer women in leadership roles, it can create a workplace culture that does not support equal pay. Understanding these reasons is crucial for the company to address the issue and ensure fair compensation for all employees.