The gender gap in STEM is an issue that prevails across borders. Women in the U.S. make up only 34 % of the workforce in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). The figures are similar in the other countries. For instance, in the European Union countries, only 31.1 % of females are enrolled in STEM related disciplines.
The gender gap in STEM is concerning because it strengthens male dominance in the industry. Whereas, lack of diversity and inclusion hinders progress in fostering innovation and advancing technological capabilities.
Equal representation of genders in STEM in colleges, universities, and in workforce is crucial for governments and industries for development.
Despite development and innovation, STEM employees tend to be well paid with better job security and benefits as compared to other fields. Hence, male dominance in STEM jobs increases occupational segregation and the gender pay gap.
1. Gender Bias
The STEM subjects are generally seen as well suited for men. Therefore, from a young age girls are encouraged to study social sciences and arts subjects. On the other hand, boys are motivated by their teachers and parents to study STEM subjects.
Even if women choose STEM fields, their ability to perform well in the related jobs are influenced by their gender. The general perception of men being better in science and math also leads to discriminatory practices in hiring and promoting employees.
Even individuals who embrace diversity and gender equality may unconsciously promote gender biasness by preferring an individual’s gender rather than competence leading to the gender gap in STEM.
2. Educational Beliefs
Females are generally not interested in studying math, science, and engineering related subjects. Even though on average girls and boys perform equally in school (Hyde et al., 2008).
Interest in studying STEM related subjects can be influenced by different factors. Among these, the belief that one is capable or incapable of studying STEM subjects plays a key role.
A study by Shelley J. Correll shows that how cultural beliefs impact individuals to choose different subjects and career directions.
Girls in their early stages access their ability to study math poor than boys – even if they perform equally in tests. Girls also set higher standards for themselves to study math. And because of these higher standards girls believe that they are less likely to succeed in STEM related subjects (Correll, 2004).
These beliefs are backed and strengthened by cultural norms and gender biases that associate STEM subjects with men.
3. Lower Self-Confidence
An individual’s belief is an important factor that leads to success or failure. With higher standards to study STEM subjects, girls have low confidence to succeed in related fields.
Moreover, girls show a lack of interest in certain subjects and occupations because they believe them inappropriate for themselves. Such false beliefs are associated with gender roles that are influenced by culture and society.
4. Culture of Educational Institutes
Many girls entering college have the skills required to succeed in majors in STEM subjects. Yet few choose to study the subject. The reason is the environment and culture of academic departments that hinder them from earning a degree in STEM.
The program of male dominated subjects such as engineering and computer science are designed by focusing on men. Therefore, certain assumptions and expectations are included in the layout of the design of the curriculum, classes, and activities organized.
Women entering these programs find themselves unfit in the culture. Hence, they prefer to drop the subjects.
5. Few Role-Models
There are fewer female role models for newcomers in the male-dominated STEM fields. The underrepresentation of women in STEM associated jobs and in leadership positions makes it difficult for young girls to get inspired and find mentors in this field.
Additionally, the culture of portraying men as scientists and engineers in books and media also limits the motivation of young girls. Making them believe that they are not the best fit for such roles.
Fewer role models are a major cause that strengthens gender stereotypes for young girls and later leads to a gender gap in STEM.
6. Workplace Environment
Workplace environment is a major cause for women to leave their jobs or to switch career paths. While working in the male-dominated industries, women face isolation and unsupportive work environments.
Usually, women are excluded from spaces, such as bars or golf courses, where vital information is shared. Despite physical exclusion, women also face rude, vulgar, and degrading behavior from their male colleagues.
Men depict such behavior when the number of females is low. Predatory, vulgar, and degrading behavior leads to isolation, and women are forced to switch career paths.
7. Uncertain Career Development Opportunities
As discussed previously, women face isolation and are excluded from the places where the real information is shared. Therefore, most of the women are uncertain about development opportunities to excel in their career. As a result, they feel ignored and abandoned.
Women also find it hard to find help and get assistance for planning their careers. Hence, lack of clarity and limited or no information negatively influence their career progression. They get stuck at what they do or they look for better opportunities in other fields.
8. Work Pressure
Individuals working in STEM fields are likely to face extreme work schedules. Individuals have to be responsive to their clients and colleagues and some have to work in multiple time zones.
These jobs come with heavy-duty engagement. Since women are the primary caregivers for their children and elderly people therefore they are more affected than men to cope with extreme work pressures.
Fulfilling family responsibilities, working around the clock in multiple time zones, and satisfying the demands of clients and customers make it difficult for women to balance their personal and professional lives.
Hence, women leave STEM jobs and switch career paths that provide them the flexibility to balance their personal and professional lives.
9. Motherhood Responsibilities
A study conducted by Steven Stack suggest that young children may limit the productivity of women. So it can impact the prospects of their career progression. It is probably because raising and taking care of children drains the energy of mothers.
Motherhood responsibilities can stall the career advancement opportunities. So women with children can be stuck in a role or they might look for roles that provide them flexibility to work.
Concluding Remarks
The gender gap in the STEM fields influences the minds of girls from a very young age. That hinders them later to excel in the field. Even if a woman acquires a degree in STEM subjects, the workplace culture and environment is a demotivating factor that forces them to choose another career.
The factors discussed above show that there are multiple reasons that contribute to the gender gap in STEM fields. Therefore, multiple solutions are required. The role of educational institutions along with industrial practices are equally important to consider.
The retention rate of women in STEM is important. Women who study STEM subjects should be able to pursue their careers in STEM fields. This can be a role model for newcomers and can help to balance the representation of women and men.
FAQ
What are the main reasons for the gender gap in STEM?
- Gender Bias
- Educational bias
- Few female role models
- Workplace environment and motherhood responsibilities
- Work pressure
