How Women Studying STEM Perceive Traditionally “Feminine” Fields and the Women Who Work in Them

• In Event: 2169 - School Context

Abstract

In recent years, more women have been pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields than in the decades before. Given this shift, this article aims to address how the attitudes of women currently studying STEM fields challenge or reinforce ideologies that historically led to gender disparity in the first place. Using data from 23 in-depth interviews with women undergraduate STEM majors at an elite university, this study examines the attitudes of these women towards traditionally women-dominated fields and the women who choose to pursue them. My findings indicate that women in STEM generally find traditionally feminine fields to be less difficult than STEM majors but feel that some women dominated fields had greater usefulness to society. Respondents also demonstrate an overall respect for individuals’ unique value systems and speak in support of all women pursuing their passions, regardless of what they are.

Author

• Karlia Nicole Brown, Northwestern University