Gender stereotypes and STEM careers: perceptions of the university community in the face of changing political discourse

Abstract

Gender stereotypes, consolidated beliefs about roles and appropriate behaviors for each sex, persist despite advances in equality. These ideas, based on social norms and expectations, are transmitted from generation to generation and are deeply rooted in culture and traditions.

To address these stereotypes, it is essential to implement policies and practices in educational and work institutions that promote equal opportunities. Likewise, promoting gender equality education from an early age allows for raising awareness and questioning these social constructs.

In this sense, in recent years, significant progress has been made. For example, the participation of women entering the Argentine university system amounts to 60%, of which 18% of women entrants choose science and technology (STEM) careers. These advances were the result of policies that promoted the visibility of women and their problems in various fields. In recent years, we have witnessed a change in political discourse that highlights the resistance of some sectors, especially young people who consider feminism excessive. The digital space, once an ally, has become a hostile environment with the rise of a new patriarchal masculinity that threatens the rights won. In this study, we ask what impact the change in discourse has on the progress made and on women's perception of the eligibility of STEM careers and the development opportunities they provide.

To answer these questions, at the Faculty of Engineering and Agricultural Sciences of the National University of San Luis, we conducted a survey aimed at the various sectors that make up the university community. The purpose of the survey is to analyze what impact this type of discourse has on the perception of the respondents and to what extent it can affect the choice of STEM careers as well as confidence in their abilities to succeed in these fields. We also analyze to what extent these discourses can impact the setback of business policies related to gender.

The results reveal that perceptions vary according to age group and are influenced by previous constructs. Resistance to gender equality, amplified by political discourses that minimize equity, demonstrates the persistence of stereotypes. It is concluded that the change of mentality is a continuous process that requires a sustained effort.