Work

What does a scientist look like? Children's perceptions of scientist gender and skin tone

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: When asked to draw a scientist, children typically draw a gender stereotypical male representation; however, research has not yet assessed these representations in terms of scientist stereotypical skin tone. The current study examined children's ( N = 69, 66.7% female, M age = 7.60, SD = 2.13) scientist perceptions by analyzing both the gender and skin tone of their scientist drawings as well as stereotypical features represented (lab coats, scientific instruments, etc.). This study also examined how these perceptions as reflected in the drawings were related to children's explicit gender stereotypes and their science growth mindset. Boys were less likely to draw a female scientist than were girls. Additionally, children with higher growth mindset were more likely to draw a female scientist. Lastly, with age, children were less likely to draw a female scientist, or a darker skin‐toned scientist as compared with a male or lighter skin‐toned scientist and were more likely to draw a scientist with stereotypical features. This study furthers our knowledge of children's perceptions about scientists.

Source: School Science and Mathematics

DOI: 10.1111/ssm.18308

Authors: Angelina Joy, Channing J. Mathews, Adam Hartstone‐Rose, Kelly Lynn Mulvey

Institutions: North Carolina State University, Purdue University West Lafayette, University of Virginia

Language: English

Topic: Science Education and Perceptions

Subfield: Developmental and Educational Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $2,680