The percentage of female students studying mathematics and physics is extremely low in science.A factor is the strength of the male image in these fields.In a previous survey by the group, physics was the second from the bottom and mathematics was the fourth from the bottom, out of the 18 disciplines asked if they were suitable for women.

　This time, the research group used a previous study that summarized such factors into three (male culture in the field, childhood experience, and gender differences in self-efficacy), and further factor 3 (gender inequality society). Climate) was added.Each factor contains multiple factors, and question items corresponding to these are prepared to measure the masculine image.An internet survey was conducted based on the new model.

　As a result, it was found that the person who tends to regard mathematics and physics as masculine from factor 1.It is for those who think that the "profession" of those who have learned mathematics and physics is suitable for men, those who have "math stereotypes" that women have low mathematical abilities, and those who study mathematics and physics. A person who has a "smart image".Furthermore, it was also found that among the factors of factor 4, those who are negative about "female should be intelligent" have a masculine image of mathematics.These results suggest that the awareness that excellence belongs to men influences the masculine image of the academic discipline.

　It is expected that the research results of this new model will help clarify the factors that bring about a masculine image in some academic fields, and will also contribute to diversity promotion policies and human resource development policies.

Paper information:[Public Understanding of Science] Masculinity in the public image of physics and mathematics: a new model comparing Japan and England