Gender Discrimination

Definition

Gender discrimination, or sex discrimination, may be characterized as the unequal treatment of a person based solely on that person's sex. While females have historically laid claim to the cry of unequal treatment, modern civil rights laws banning sex discrimination have been construed to protect males as well, especially in the area of employment.

Discrimination in the Acquisition of Credit

The Equal Credit Opportunity Act of 1968, as amended, prohibits a creditor from discriminating against an individual on the grounds of sex or marital status with respect to the granting of credit. This means that a woman cannot be denied a credit card or personal loan solely on the basis of her gender. Furthermore, a creditor is barred from requiring a married woman to apply for credit in her spouse's name.