Provides a feminist critique of rational-choice theory and the interdisciplinary feminist theories of sociology. Applies the separative model of self to four assumptions of the neoclassical economics version of rational-choice theory. Uses research on marital power to illustrate how removing distorting assumptions can help illuminate sociological…

Predictions from Polachek's theory explaining occupational sex segregation are tested and found to be false. The data do not show that women are penalized less for intermittent employment if they choose predominantly female occupations. There is no evidence that such a choice is economically rational. (Author/SK)