What term describes the unseen barrier that limits advancement opportunities for minorities and women in organizations?

The term "glass ceiling" refers to an invisible barrier that prevents certain individuals, particularly women and minorities, from advancing to higher positions within an organization, despite their qualifications or achievements. This concept highlights the biases and systemic obstacles that exist within corporate structures, which can hinder the progression of capable individuals based solely on factors like gender or ethnicity, rather than merit.

The glass ceiling is often characterized by various forms of discrimination, stereotypes, and organizational cultures that favor certain groups over others. It symbolizes how, despite being visible in the workplace, these barriers are difficult to identify and address, making it challenging for affected individuals to break through to higher levels of leadership and influence.

Other options like "stone wall," "social barrier," and "invisible wall" do not specifically denote the entrenched, systemic nature of these advancement obstacles and lack the widespread recognition and specific implications that "glass ceiling" carries in discussions of workplace inequality and diversity.