Navigating Support in STEM: A Journey Through Gender Dynamics
The world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) is often characterized by complex interpersonal dynamics, especially when it comes to gender. In this article, we explore the challenges and support mechanisms that women in STEM face, highlighting the importance of mutual support and understanding.
The Struggle for Support: A Personal Journey
As a woman in STEM, I have experienced firsthand the unique challenges that come with working in a predominantly male-dominated field. My journey is one of both triumph and struggle, marked by moments of isolation and moments of unexpected support.
One of the most perplexing experiences I had was when I published a book aimed at addressing the lived experiences of women scientists in a male-dominated lab. I reached out to a network of women, including my sisters and my mother, hoping for honest feedback and support. Instead, I received reviews from complete strangers, mostly men, who had been impacted by the same issues I wrote about. This lack of support from the women closest to me was disheartening and confusing. It made me question the reception of my work and its importance within the broader community of women in STEM.
The Impact of Plagiarism and Misunderstandings
It wasn't until I discovered that a man had plagiarized my work that the real impact of my book became clear. The plagiarized version resonated with certain readers, indicating that there were strong connections to my themes of technosocial evolution and the struggles of being a woman scientist. This experience highlighted the importance of understanding the nuances of personal and professional feedback and not taking events at face value.
Female Support: More Accidental than Intentional
Reflecting on my time in a physics lab, I realize that support from my peers was scarce, especially from women of my age and younger. These younger women seemed to be in survival mode, focused on their own professional and personal challenges, and less inclined to offer or seek support. Similarly, young men in the lab exhibited a similar mindset. The primary sources of support came from the men at the top of the hierarchy, and their approach was hit or miss.
Male Support: A Mixed Bag
My relationship with my husband, a fellow physicist, also presented a unique perspective on support within STEM. Despite our shared work in the field, we faced different challenges. He often criticized my abilities, suggesting that I was not as good as my competition and lacked the knowledge to understand complex topics. However, when I started writing online, I noticed a significant shift in perceptions. Readers from around the world understood and appreciated my work, including some men who respected my intellect and reasonings. This experience taught me to be skeptical of feedback and to seek diverse perspectives.
Switching Gears: Moving from STEM to Midwifery
Reflecting on these experiences, I often wonder why some women opt to leave STEM for other fields. An old friend who became a midwife shared that her workplace valued team spirit and offered considerable emotional and practical support. This story resonates with me, as I have noticed a stark contrast between the support structures in STEM and those in other professions like midwifery. Two women I know personally who started in STEM have switched to midwifery, attracted by the supportive and empathetic nature of their new fields.
These experiences underscore the importance of understanding the unique challenges of working in STEM and the potential for finding support in unexpected places. It is crucial to approach feedback with a critical and open mind, recognizing that support can come in various forms and from diverse sources.
In conclusion, the journey of a woman in STEM is a complex interplay of challenges and support. By being open to different perspectives and recognizing the value in unexpected support, we can navigate our careers more effectively. As we move forward, let us strive to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all women in STEM.