Gender bias in research
Publication type
book part
Publication date
2020
Author(s)
Upchurch, M.
Editor(s)
Nancy A. Naples
Language
English
View point(s)
Global
Abstract
Gender bias in research influences both the selection of participants in research and perceptions about individuals' capacity to do quality research. For the selection of research participants, an androcentric, or male-focused, bias has historically led researchers to conduct their observations on males, both in biomedical studies and in research on social or behavioral phenomena. This bias occurs in studies of both humans and nonhuman animals. As a result, we have a dearth of information about the biology of female organisms, other than their reproductive biology, and governments or other organizations have tended to enact policies without good information on how those policies affect the wellbeing of females. In regard to perceptions about ability to do research, historically women were excluded from leadership roles in science. While blatant hiring discrimination is no longer permissible, women engaged in scientific research continue to experience openly expressed doubts about their competence as well as more subtle forms of discrimination resulting from unconscious biases. As in any other area of endeavor where men hold the majority of power and influence, women engaged in scientific careers may find themselves vulnerable to sexual harassment or assault. This chapter explores the current status of women both as researchers and as subjects of research and identifies some initiatives that could be taken to improve their status. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Part of
Companion to Women's and Gender Studies
ISBN
9781119315063
Pagination
139-154