If you’re pregnant, you may be treated better as a shopper than as a job applicant, according to two studies from George mason and Rice universities. In one study, research participants—sometimes wearing prostheses to appear pregnant—entered 110 retail stores and either applied for work or bought items. the women were subjected to far more hostility while job searching when they looked pregnant but were met with friendliness when they were shopping. the other study revealed that employers who evaluated pregnant women applying for traditionally male-oriented jobs such as janitor or high school math teacher were judgmental and felt that the applicants “would complain a lot” or “expect to have their work done for them.” these findings challenge the effectiveness of current workplace and discrimination policies and serve to maintain traditional gender roles, which can inhibit women’s success, says Eden B. King, PhD, a coauthor of the studies and an assistant professor of psychology at George Mason. “To counteract stereotypes, demonstrate a strong track record, show professionalism in the interview and emphasize commitment, capability and confidence.”