subject: Are There Any Gender Biases For Choosing A Scientific Career? [print this page] Have you ever thought about gender issues when choosing a career? Should we consider this difference when studying sociological statistics and which professions are often occupied by men or by women? Perhaps, this question is the most difficult to answer because sometimes this considerably hinders peoples choice that is primarily based on the existed stereotypes. The statistics shows, however, that gender concerns still exist at different levels of scientific organization and are often enclosed in neutral working processes. We will try to shatter the stereotypes that have firmly been established in our society.
Stereotype #1 Nursing and teaching are usually occupied by females
This is the most awkward presumption. In ancient times, the majority of teaching positions were occupied by men because women had fewer possibilities for obtaining education being more attached to everyday life routines. Their obligations involve cooking, cleaning, and washing. Nowadays this profession is more popular among women because it is safer.
Stereotype #2 Forensic sciences should be studied by males
Nowadays it is considered to be a false presumption because both males and females are equally allowed to police services. This stereotype is, perhaps, based on physical peculiarities since this profession is regarded as more dangerous and not all women are ready to become forensic technicians.
Stereotype #3 Biochemistry and biophysics are males destiny
This is absolutely false because lots of women are keen on studying these scientific fields and there are ones who have greatly contributed to their development.
Stereotype #4 Astronauts
In modern society, people have long considered that astronauts should be males but not females. Why is it so? Again, everything is narrowed to physical perception. However, everyone knows that appearances are deceptive as well as stereotypes.
The above-stated examples are only few stereotypes out of a great number. The others can also be easily shattered.
