Microaggressions, Interrupted: The Experience and Effects of Gender Microaggressions for Women in STEM

Jennifer Y. Kim () and Alyson Meister
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Jennifer Y. Kim: Tufts University School of Medicine
Alyson Meister: IMD Business School

Journal of Business Ethics, 2023, vol. 185, issue 3, No 3, 513-531

Abstract: Abstract Women continue to remain underrepresented in STEM, and this gender disparity is particularly pronounced in leadership positions. Through in-depth, qualitative interviews of 39 women leaders in STEM, we identify common gender microaggressions they experience, and explore how these microaggressions affect their leadership experience and outcomes in the workplace. Our findings highlight five types of gender microaggressions women most often encounter, and how and when these microaggressions occur. We explore the negative impact that microaggressions can have on women’s work identities and how they can trigger a cycle of rumination and self-doubt that may ultimately result in women choosing to leave STEM. Importantly, we surface the interventional and empowering role that allies play in triggering a redemptive sensemaking process that can support women leaders to build resilience and counter the negative effects of microaggressions.

Keywords: STEM; Gender microaggression; Identity; Allyship; Leadership; Gender (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (3)

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DOI: 10.1007/s10551-022-05203-0

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