How gender determines the way we speak about professionals

Area of Science:

• Social Psychology
• Gender Studies
• Linguistics

Background:

• Gender inequality is prevalent in high-status professions like STEM.
• Linguistic practices may perpetuate gender bias.
• Referring to professionals by surname is a common practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate whether gender influences the way professionals are referred to by surname.
• To examine the consequences of this linguistic bias on perceptions of eminence and award eligibility.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of archival data (online reviews, radio discussions).
• Self-report surveys on professional references.
• Experimental studies manipulating gender and reference style.

Main Results:

• Individuals are over twice as likely to refer to male professionals by surname compared to female professionals.
• References by surname are associated with higher perceived fame, eminence, and status.
• This bias can affect award recommendations, with scientists referred to by surname deemed more deserving.

Conclusions:

• A gender bias exists in referring to professionals by surname, favoring men.
• This linguistic bias has tangible consequences, influencing professional evaluation and opportunities.
• Addressing this bias is crucial for promoting gender equality in STEM and other fields.