This review essay analyzes the present research on women as managers and executives in business, commerce, and industry in the United States. The nine sections of the essay cover the following topics of potential interest to researchers and businesswomen: the historical contributions of women to the development of management, the social forces contributing to change in the situation of female executives, the current status of women managers, the training and availability of women for managerial positions, stereotypes of manager characteristics and the resulting differential treatment of female managers, the effects of affirmative action, career development and career strategies, the profile of the successful woman executive, and the social and business impact of dual-career lifestyles. Each section presents and critiques current knowledge on the topic, explores areas of controversy, and suggests aspects needing more research or fresh insights. All citations in the footnotes are listed in abbreviated form in the Notes following each section. A bibliography contains complete citations. (YLB)