Perceptions of Male and Female STEM Aptitude

Abstract

This study investigated evaluations and advice communicated to male and female technology interns experiencing work difficulties, using a 2 (workplace issue: ability or interpersonal) ×2 (intern gender: male vs. female) between-subjects experimental design. Technology professionals rated hypothetical interns on competence, qualifications, intelligence, and potential field issues. Results suggest that female interns with ability issues are viewed as having lower field aptitude than male interns with ability issues, when judged by individuals holding both hostile and benevolent sexist beliefs. Rater gender was not a significant predictor of aptitude rating. Aptitude assessments of male and female interns with interpersonal issues did not differ; however, open-ended analyses revealed that male interns were expected to be agentic and dissuaded from help seeking when facing interpersonal issues, while female interns were expected to find mentors and control their emotions. Findings show how sexist beliefs, workplace issues, and intern gender can affect responses and assessments by potential mentors.