Which barrier is described as preventing advancement in leadership, especially for women and minorities?

• A. Discrimination
• B. Harassment
• C. Glass walls
• D. Glass ceiling

Answer: (D)

The glass ceiling is the invisible barrier that prevents qualified women and minorities from advancing to top leadership positions, even when they have the skills and a strong track record. It captures how systemic biases, limited access to high-visibility projects, mentorship, and sponsorship can keep capable people from reaching senior roles. While discrimination and harassment can underpin this effect, the term specifically describes the upward limit on promotion to leadership. Glass walls is a related idea about barriers in career tracks, but the standard phrase for blocking ascent into leadership is the glass ceiling.