Women are underrepresented in certain fields due to societal gender norms from "summary" of The Psychology of Sex Differences by Eleanor E. Maccoby,Carol Nagy Jacklin
In many societies, there are established gender norms that dictate the roles and behaviors that are considered appropriate for men and women. These societal expectations can have a significant impact on the choices that individuals make regarding their education and career paths. One consequence of these gender norms is that women are often underrepresented in certain fields, such as STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). From a young age, children are socialized to conform to gender norms through various channels, such as family, peers, schools, and the media. Boys are encouraged to pursue interests that are traditionally associated with masculinity, such as sports, technology, and leadership, while girls are steered towards activities that are considered feminine, such as caregiving, arts, and humanities. These early influences can shape individuals' beliefs about their abilities and aspirations, leading to the perpetuation of gender disparities in certain fields. Furthermore, the lack of representation of women in certain fields can create a self-perpetuating cycle of underrepresentation. When women do not see themselves reflected in a particular field, they may be less likely to consider pursuing a career in that field. This lack of visibility can also contribute to feelings of isolation and imposter syndrome among women who do choose to enter male-dominated fields. In addition to societal gender norms, there are also structural barriers that can hinder women's participation in certain fields. These barriers can include discrimination, harassment, lack of mentorship opportunities, unequal pay, and limited access to resources. These challenges can further discourage women from pursuing careers in male-dominated fields, perpetuating the cycle of underrepresentation. Addressing the issue of underrepresentation of women in certain fields requires a multifaceted approach that involves challenging societal gender norms, dismantling structural barriers, and promoting diversity and inclusion. By creating more inclusive environments that value and support the contributions of women, we can begin to break down the barriers that have traditionally prevented women from fully participating in all fields and professions.
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