STEM for All

Women only make up 34% of the STEM workforce.

Some of the biggest factors in the STEM gender gap is gender stereotypes, male-dominated cultures, and limited role models. Many stereotypes are placed onto women starting from a young age. Their ability in math is often underestimated or overlooked. Male-dominated fields are usually unwelcoming for women which impacts the gender gap. An important aspect in achieving your dreams is having a role model similar to you. There are very few women that are represented in the STEM community which decreases the women role models girls can have.

Why is this an important issue?

Studies have reported that gender discrimination can affect the mental wellbeing of women. It can increase chances of depression, loneliness, and more.

Results

Those with perceived gender discrimination reported lower life satisfaction and quality of life on average. Depression and loneliness were reported to be higher among those who perceived gender discrimination. We can see how gender inequality affects women and why we should aim to close the gender gap.

The score range for depression was 0-8, loneliness was 1-3, quality of life was 0-57, and life satisfaction was 0-30. Age, wealth, ethnicity, marital status, body mass index, smoking, and physical activity have been accounted for in the data. About 3000  participants were used for this study.