Abstract
Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine (STEMM) leaders are expected to drive change towards gender equality. Little is known, however, about their capacity to do so. Drawing on 20 in-depth interviews with STEMM leaders, this article investigates how they resist gender equality efforts through disavowal within STEMM workplaces. By adopting a discourse analysis-based approach, we examine the discursive resistance tactics of disavowal, which are hitherto under-reported in this context. Disavowal includes denying the knowability of gender-based inequality as well as minimising its significance. By enhancing understanding of forms of gender-equality resistance, the article contributes to the scant literature on resistance to gender equality broadly, and specifically within STEMM. We argue that STEMM leaders who either deny that STEMM has a gender equality problem or look for ‘someone, somewhere’ to come up with a plan, need enhanced support and capability development to lead change.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
