Final answer:
The pattern of segregation based on hierarchies within an organization is known as social stratification, which includes the concept of the glass ceiling that affects women's upward mobility within corporate structures.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term for the pattern of segregation based on hierarchies within an organization is often referred to as social stratification. This concept describes the way in which society is structured in layers, similarly to strata in geology, with each layer representing a different level of access to society's resources. In the context of gender inequality within the workplace, this is exemplified by the glass ceiling, an invisible barrier that women often encounter in their careers.
The glass ceiling prevents many women from reaching the highest positions in an organization. This term illustrates a form of discrimination that occurs due to established hierarchies and social roles, rather than outright discriminatory practices by employers. Despite improvements over the years, as of early 2021, only 41 out of the largest 500 companies were run by women, showcasing the ongoing presence of the glass ceiling.
Social stratification is not limited to gender; it can also be based on racial category, socioeconomic status, kinship, religion, or other factors. These divisions create a hierarchical organization of groups within society, leading to different levels of power, status, and resource allocation. Segregation, whether de jure or de facto, can be an outcome of these social structures, separating groups by various attributes in various aspects of life.