Using selfies to challenge public stereotypes of scientists

Area of Science:

• Science Communication
• Social Media Studies
• Public Perception of Science

Background:

• Public trust in science is crucial for societal progress.
• Negative stereotypes can hinder engagement with STEM fields.
• Social media offers new avenues for scientists to connect with the public.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of scientist self-portraits (selfies) on public perception.
• To compare audience reactions to scientist selfies versus work-focused images.
• To assess how selfies influence perceptions of scientist warmth, trustworthiness, and competence.

Main Methods:

• An online experiment was conducted with 1620 participants using Qualtrics.
• Participants were shown images of scientists posting selfies or work-related photos.
• Perceptions of scientist warmth, trustworthiness, competence, and symbolic threat were measured.

Main Results:

• Scientist selfies significantly increased perceptions of warmth and trustworthiness.
• Selfies did not decrease perceived competence; female scientist selfies were particularly effective.
• Viewing selfies reduced perceived symbolic threat and the perception of science as male-dominated.

Conclusions:

• Scientist self-portraiture on social media can positively influence public attitudes.
• Visual self-representation can humanize scientists and foster greater trust.
• Encouraging selfies, especially by female scientists, may broaden science's appeal.