The evolution and orientation of women towards so-called "masculine" occupations The aim of this research work, carried out in 2008 for the defence of my Master 2 thesis at the University of La R?union, was to find out why, over the last few decades, women have invested heavily and are gradually moving towards occupations that were previously the preserve of men. This phenomenon leads us to wonder about this reaction: is it due to rising unemployment? Population growth? A need for help to overcome constraints? Or a need for financial security? The research question gave us an overview of the subject of our research and the field in which it is being carried out. The initial question is posed, and the specific objectives are set out in the form of a hypothesis. Jean Fran?ois Begue.