The Investigation of Micro-Interactions in Sustain Gender Inequality in STEM Occupations
Date
2023-09-06
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Abstract
Gender inequality persists despite many efforts to increase gender representation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) occupations. To understand why gender inequality persists in STEM occupations, I investigate micro-interactions that provide insight into how team social exchanges impact individuals' behaviours and experiences. The two micro-interactions that I consider in this dissertation are microinequities and microaffirmations. Microinequities are small events that one may disregard due to their diminutive size; however, they happen frequently, have long-lasting effects, are typically unintentional, are challenging to prove and occur wherever people are perceived to be different (Rowe, 1990; 2008). Microaffirmations are also small acts; however, these acts can foster inclusion, create and provide opportunities for advancement, and affirm one's work (Rowe, 2008). Using an experience sampling methodology, I collected data from 102 participants with 589 valid data points from all participants. All participants worked within the context of STEM. I examine the influence of microinequities and microaffirmations on the participation of women in team processes, such as decision participation. Findings from this dissertation study show that microinequities are detrimental to team decision participation, role behaviour, and individuals' well-being. These results also showed that microaffirmations could mitigate the adverse effects that microinequities can have on individuals' well-being. However, gender identity was not a significant predictor of microinequities and microaffirmations. I discuss this research study's implications, limitations, and future directions.
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Gender, STEM, Teamwork, Microinequities, Microaffirmations
Citation
Solis, L. A. (2023). The investigation of micro-interactions in sustain gender inequality in STEM occupations (Doctoral thesis, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada). Retrieved from https://prism.ucalgary.ca.