As parents, we try our level best to instil in our children that they can do and be anything their hearts desire – but, sadly, gender norms still have too great a hold over them.
This has been illustrated by new research which shows that little girls believe ‘genius’ to be a trait reserved for the male of the species.
A team of researchers at three top US colleges – New York University, Princeton University, and the University of Illinois – analysed the data of 400 children, as part of a study into gender stereotypes.
Described as ‘heartbreaking’ by one study author, the research revealed that little girls as young as six years old believe only men possess ‘brilliance’ – and it’s impacting their choices in education.
“Not only do we see that girls just starting out in school are absorbing some of society’s stereotyped notions of brilliance, but these young girls are also choosing activities based on these stereotypes,” wrote Andrei Cimpian.
“Nevertheless, the present results suggest a sobering conclusion: many children assimilate the idea that brilliance is a male quality at a young age.”
The researchers are even worried that these gender norms are discouraging little girls from pursuing top careers.
“This stereotype begins to shape children’s interests as soon as it is acquired and is thus likely to narrow the range of careers they will one day contemplate,” Cimpian added.
