# How does dirty work history affect career success? Research reveals long-term effects of stigmatized work experiences. - **Source:** [Journal of Applied Psychology](https://www.apa.org/pubs/journals/apl) - **Published:** 2026-02-16 - **Topic:** [Career Growth](https://brifing.si/c/growth) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/946710a9-71d6-408d-bd94-3efb6116dae5 ## The hidden cost of dirty jobs Studies show that working in physically dirty, dangerous, or low-status jobs has long-term negative effects on individuals' careers. These effects persist even after changing jobs and make the job search process more difficult. ## How stigma operates The research examines how both public stigma and self-stigma affect individuals with dirty work histories. Employers tend to offer lower salaries to candidates with such backgrounds, according to the findings. ## What the data shows Nationwide data spanning decades reveals that those with dirty work experience face longer unemployment periods and obtain lower-prestige positions in new jobs. The effect becomes more pronounced with the number and duration of past dirty jobs. ## Experimental findings In simulated hiring experiments, candidates with dirty work histories were less preferred despite having identical qualifications. Participants tended to perceive these candidates as less skilled and educated, though no actual difference existed. ## Reflections from experiences Interviews with former dirty workers showed many had lowered career expectations and felt disadvantaged in the job market. Some chose to completely omit this period from their resumes. ## Career inequality These findings point to an invisible source of inequality in the labor market. While dirty jobs are socially necessary, they severely limit workers' long-term career opportunities. Policymakers need to address this systemic issue. ## Sources covering this story - http://doi.org/10.1037/apl0001367 — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._