Understanding that there are fewer women in STEM fields is simple to do. However, understanding why that is, and what role as an individual you can play to mitigate those effects is harder to discuss.
The STEM environment can often present itself to be a hostile environment. As a predominantly male-dominated environment, negative gender-based interactions and experiences are heightened and more likely to occur. Compared to women in non-STEM fields, specifically those of the social sciences, women in STEM were noted to more discrimination in a plethora of discussions: salary, equipment, access to administrative staff, promotional opportunities, etc. The American Psychological Association comments that women in STEM can also be accustomed to scholarly isolation in which they are, “excluded from scholarly interactions with other faculty members.”
Fundamentally, women in STEM face challenges that are often not experienced by men. They are challenged with equal access to opportunities to study and when they do study they are often questioned and undermined. Their ability to perform is often doubted, and women in science feel the need to prove their competence and commitment. Furthermore, there is a lack of mentorship. Representation is necessary to succeed in a variety of fields as it provides possibilities and can often connect you to other resources that may help you. However, because there is a lack of women in these fields and as such, they are often left alone - again, connecting back to scholarly isolation.
As a result of these negative challenges that women in STEM are forced to overcome on a daily basis, there is a recorded lower job satisfaction and lower productivity levels from these women. Moreover, because of a lack of diversity, science results can be undermined. In an environment where the presence of those who are alike is very relevant (i.e., men in STEM) the likelihood of affinity bias or confirmation bias is extremely high. That is, there is an unconscious tendency to get along with, and fundamentally agree with the opinions of people who look like you. This can apply to both gender and race. However, as there is a disproportionate ratio between men and women, then the opinions presented and agreed with are often those of the men. Very simply, “Acknowledging implicit bias and promoting diversity and inclusion doesn’t only enable better science; it is a crucial first step for fixing a broken STEM culture,” as noted by Scientific American.
Moving forward toward a more equal STEM field is a step that is not wholly reliant on an individual’s actions. It is a systemic change that is occurring through youth choosing to acknowledge their implicit biases and understanding the role that they play in creating STEM. By understanding and raising awareness about the lack of women in STEM, youth are breaking stereotypes and stigmas. As individuals, it is important to create an environment that is accepting, and allows for young women to feel as though they belong in the community. Alienation is a prime reason that females wish not to continue their studies in STEM fields. Be conscientious in conversations to make sure that there is an equal voice among participants, regardless of race. Oftentimes, unintentionally, overlap occurs in discussions but creating space for everyone to share their ideas and explore science is foundational to ensuring that there is diversity in STEM.
Moving forward is possible. In fact, there has already been a shift in narrative. Most recently, Dr. Emmanuelle Charpentier, a French microbiologist, geneticist, and biochemist, was jointly awarded the Nobel Prize in chemistry with Dr. Jennifer A. Doudna, a professor of molecular and cell biology and of chemistry. These are two women creating possibilities for young women. By having readers interested in learning about this is significant. Take time to learn about women in STEM. Recognize personal biases, and work towards equality within your own fields. EqualiSci has a network of individuals who are working towards a more equal demographic within Ottawa so feel free to read any of the other articles published!
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