The publication rates of female versus male faculty and factors that influence scholarly productivity for women faculty are discussed, based on the research literature. The academic reward structure and the payoffs resulting from scholarly productivity are also considered, along with the impact of productivity on building the reputations both of the institution and the individual. Although research indicates that publication is a primary means of reward and recognition in academia, findings related to female versus male publication rates have been inconsistent. A number of researchers have found that women tend to produce less than men. The literature suggests that causes for women's lower publication rates may be analyzed in terms of three categories: individual characteristics, characteristics of the job, and psychosocial characteristics. Individual characteristics include marital status, family obligations, and achievement motivation. Characteristics of the job that may influence women's publication rates include occupational location, higher teaching loads, and academic rank. One psychosocial influence is linked to the suggestion that women are more concerned with interpersonal relationships, whereas men focus more on individual achievements. Another area concerns overt and covert sex discrimination. (SW)