Exploring Indian Views on the Underrepresentation of Female Teenagers in STEM

Abstract

Women are underrepresented in STEM fields in a significant manner. Focus of the study was Indian female teenagers and drivers of their under-representation. Lots of research available in general, but nothing focused on this specific segment. Conducted both primary and secondary research. Overall, respondents believed that there was significant under-representation of female teenagers in STEM. Statistically significant: Overall under-representation : 4.48 ( scale of 1-7, where 7 is strongly agree), std error of 0.17. Poverty (mean= 5.70)and Parent’s Traditional Values (mean= 4.28) were the most important perceived factors for underrepresentation of women in STEM. Other factors given some importance out of the seven included : Stereotypes, teachers’ discouragement, lower confidence in female students. Factors that were not considered important were: avoiding male dominated field, feminine attributes. Secondary research support the findings: Poverty is the most important factor.78% of children who do not go to school do so are girls. Families who did not receive good education do not quite understand its value and less likely to encourage kids. Also, in limited budgets, male children get preference. While there are actions by Government and other organizations, very important to take personal action. Teaching female children and mentoring them could have significant impact.