Nature vs. nurture beliefs are still holding women back in STEM
July 21, 2025
Despite decades of progress, women remain underrepresented in science and technology (STEM) careers.
New research by UBC psychology professor Dr. Toni Schmader and her team offers insight into one key reason why: the persistent belief that men and women are “naturally” interested in different kinds of work. Even when discrimination isn’t overt, this belief subtly shapes which opportunities women are offered—and which they aren’t.
Her research found that the beliefs managers hold, especially when they think women “naturally” prefer people-focused work, shape the opportunities they offer. That in turn shapes what women become interested in.
In this Q&A, Dr. Schmader states: " STEM shapes the world around us. If only a subset of people feel welcome, we lose the perspectives and creativity that come from diverse lived experiences. It’s not just about fairness, it’s about what we can achieve when we open doors for everyone."
