In general men tend to be bigger risk takers than women in life and in there careers. Riskier jobs tend to be better compensated in good times but they also tend to disappear during bad times. Women who have chosen less risky careers or positions will not get payed as much when the economy is doing well but they will keep there jobs when the economy goes south. This could partially explain why women are not compensated as highly even in the same jobs as men. It would be interesting to see if women in the same jobs as men are not being laid off in as great amounts. Women could do the same job as a man but do it in a more risk averse way. This could lead to lower pay but a better job security.