Gender Bias
Articles tagged with Gender Bias
Bullying and adverse social climate take measurable toll on mental health of gender-diverse youth
Research found that gender-diverse teens reported higher rates of psychological stress and psychotic-like experiences, which can lead to depression, anxiety, and other serious mental health disorders. Bullying and unsupportive legislation drove these findings.
New BSC study reveals, for the first time, that the female immune system changes much more than that of men with age
A new study by the Barcelona Supercomputing Center reveals that women's immune systems undergo more pronounced changes with age, leading to a greater susceptibility to autoimmune diseases. In contrast, men experience less extensive immune system changes, but are at higher risk for certain blood cancers.
Counting the silence: How years of data crunching led to female artists making up majority of Brit Award nominees
A decade-long analysis reveals a significant gap in solo female Irish artists reaching number one on charts, but data-driven intervention has led to a shift in Brit Awards nominations. The study highlights the impact of commercial mechanisms like airplay on public recognition and industry trends.
Female veterans faced steeper well-being declines after COVID-19, study finds
A new study found that female post-9/11 veterans experienced a more significant decline in overall well-being compared to their male counterparts after the COVID-19 pandemic. They reported lower work satisfaction, higher underemployment, and less emotional support, with the sharpest difference appearing in work strain.
New Themed Issue calls for urgent shift away from “Leaky Pipeline” metaphor as studies reveal systemic exclusion of women in Archaeology
The 'leaky pipeline' metaphor oversimplifies the systemic barriers faced by women and marginalized scholars in archaeology. New research highlights multiple forms of inequity that diminish productivity, limit collaborations, and reduce future generations of archaeologists.
Women use professional and social networks to push past the glass ceiling
A study of 19,000 corporate employees found that women rely on complex social networks to reach director-level positions, while men's success is more determined by current employment. Women who advance to high-level positions are also more likely to be connected to other female leaders, acting as bridges to bring in more women.
Most of the Spanish population considers prostitution a form of violence against women
A survey by UJI mathematicians found that 69% of the Spanish population considers prostitution a form of violence against women. The study also shows that 79.1% of respondents agree that prostitution puts the dignity of those involved at risk.
Large study shows scaling startups risk increasing gender gaps
A large Swedish study reveals that rapid growth in startups increases the likelihood of biased hiring decisions, disproportionately affecting women. Founders with HR knowledge and experience counteract these challenges, shrinking gender gaps.
Sex determines the connection between diseases, according to a BSC study that exposes historical biases in public health
A BSC study analyzed 8,906 patient samples to explore disease connections between women and men. It identified different biological pathways for co-occurring diseases depending on sex, highlighting the need for sex-specific risk-reduction strategies.
How well-meaning allies can increase stress for marginalized people
A study by Cornell University researcher Merrick Osborne found that asking a marginalized person for help during a prejudice confrontation increases their emotional burden. This can lead to negative perceptions of the ally and decreased willingness to associate with them in the future.
AI images of doctors can exaggerate and reinforce existing stereotypes
A small analysis found AI-generated images of doctors exaggerate and reinforce existing stereotypes on sex, gender, race, and ethnicity. This contradicts recent medical workforce statistics, which show a more diverse range of doctors in the UK and US.
International Day/Elimination of Violence against Women - femicide report finds 44 women murdered in Israel since January
The Israeli Femicide Observatory reports a sharp rise in femicide cases across Israel, with 44 women murdered between January and November 18. The report highlights key trends and calls for urgent policy action to address systemic failures in prevention and oversight.
Humans bring gender bias to their interactions with AI – new study
A new study from Trinity College Dublin found that people exploit female-labelled AI and distrust male-labelled AI equally, as they do human partners of the same gender. The study's findings have significant implications for AI design, deployment, and regulation to prevent harmful gender discrimination.
Fairer funding: A lottery-first approach for more equitable research grant allocation
A new study from the University of Lübeck introduces a 'lottery-first' approach to research grant allocation, increasing female representation by 10% and funded projects led by women by 23%. This method reduces estimated economic costs by two-thirds while maintaining scientific excellence.
The law turns a “blind eye” to the severe financial consequences of being in an abusive relationship, study warns
A new study by the University of Exeter warns that the current laws turn a 'blind eye' to the long-lasting financial consequences of domestic abuse. The research suggests that the law should be reformed to take into account the financial impacts of abuse when dividing assets, enabling enhanced awards for victim-survivors.
Ditch ‘shrink it and pink it’ approach to women’s running shoes, manufacturers urged
A study finds that women runners prioritize comfort, injury prevention, and performance when choosing running shoes, highlighting a need for sex- and gender-specific designs that accommodate female foot morphology across the lifespan. The researchers recommend moving beyond scaling down men's shoes to fit women's feet.
Women portrayed as younger than men online, and AI amplifies the bias
Researchers analyzed 1.4 million online images and videos, finding that women are systematically presented as younger than men across various occupational and social categories. The study also found that mainstream algorithms amplify age-related gender bias in resume evaluations, rating older male applicants as more qualified.
Body-positive and humorous parody social media inspire gratitude and motivate women to challenge unrealistic body standards
A new study from the University of Surrey found that exposure to body-positive imagery and humorous parody content on social media improves young women's body satisfaction. The research also reveals a link between viewing this type of imagery and women's engagement in online activism, including intentions to promote diverse representat...
Women earn 25% less than men in wealthy households, finds study
A new analysis of the gender pay gap in the UK reveals that women in wealthier households earn 25% less than men, while those in poorer households experience a smaller 4% gap. The study highlights the importance of addressing societal penalties for being female and improving job quality to reduce the pay gap.
Sun, sea and sexual violence: How party tourism promotes and permits sexual assault - study
Research from the University of Birmingham finds that party tourism creates an environment for sexual assault by normalizing extreme behavior and prioritizing economic revenue over women's safety. The study highlights how destinations silence victims to protect their reputation, reinforcing a culture of silencing survivors.
Female pilots perform better under pressure, study finds
A new study led by University of Waterloo researchers found that female pilots tend to make fewer flight control errors under stress, despite similar visual attention patterns. The findings challenge gender bias in aviation performance and suggest a need for more inclusive pilot training and evaluation systems.
Women politicians receive more identity-based attacks on social media than men, study finds
A new study reveals that women politicians in Europe receive uncivil tweets regardless of their prominence, with a higher likelihood of identity-based attacks than men. Women in politics frequently report serious online harassment, creating additional barriers for women entering politics.
Gender disparities in Italian medical academia have persisted or worsened since 2014, with a continued "leaky pipeline" of women not progressing to senior roles
A study examining Italian medical academia over the last decade reveals a persistent 'leaky pipeline' of women not advancing to senior roles. The research highlights significant gender disparities in academia, affecting women's career prospects and opportunities.
Gender-fair job titles don’t shift teen career aspirations in healthcare, study finds
A French-language study found that gender-fair job titles do not influence adolescents' reported career interest or sense of belonging in nursing, surgery, and clinical psychology. The study suggests that more comprehensive strategies are needed to counter deeply rooted gendered expectations.
New study reveals gendered language patterns in children’s television across 60 years
A comprehensive new study analyzed scripts from nearly 7,000 episodes of children's TV shows in the US spanning 1960 to 2018. The research found enduring biased patterns in how male and female characters are portrayed through language, with men associated with agency and rewards, while women were linked to family and relationships.
New University of Minnesota report shows MN teen birth rates continue 30-year decline
A new University of Minnesota report shows a continued 30-year decline in MN teen birth rates, with lower chlamydia rates than in decades. The report also emphasizes the importance of addressing social determinants of health and providing accurate sexual health information to all youth.
Sexism undermines teams by disrupting emotional synchrony’s role in performance
A new study reveals how sexist comments alter women's emotional interactions during teamwork, increasing emotional synchrony but eliminating its benefits for team performance. Researchers found that exposure to sexism rewires teams' functioning, weakening their ability to stay focused on shared goals.
Lip sync: study reveals gender differences in preference for lip size
Researchers found that men prefer female faces with natural lip sizes, while women prefer plumper lips. The study highlights the subjective nature of beauty and the impact of social and cultural factors on our perceptions.
Sexism in the City traces history of forgotten pioneers
A new book by Lancaster University historian James Taylor highlights the lives of pioneering female stockbrokers who challenged societal beliefs about women and money. The study reveals how these women fought against exclusion and ultimately won the right to join the London Stock Exchange in 1973.
Research reveals gender bias blind spot among men in local leadership
Researchers found that men in local leadership positions are unaware of gender biases and less likely to challenge stereotypes, while women actively work to break down these biases. The study suggests that greater awareness of gender in leadership can create more inclusive and effective leadership.
Discrimination in the application process? It depends
A study by social psychologist Melanie Steffens found that high qualifications can overcome negative stereotypes, but even small amounts of additional information can activate biases. Researchers also discovered that certain groups, such as Turkish women, are more likely to be excluded from job opportunities due to stereotypes.
Transgender and gender diverse people less likely to receive follow-up after a mental health hospitalization
A study found that transgender and gender diverse individuals have lower access to appropriate mental health care and support following a psychiatric hospitalization, yet better follow-up after an emergency department visit. The study suggests that transphobia in the hospital system contributes to this disparity.
Study: Social media doesn't always bring people together, even when they have shared goals for democracy
Research from the University of Kansas found that social media did not bridge gaps between feminist groups and traditional Algerian thought, instead promoting violence and oppression. Despite having common goals, women faced misogyny and marginalization online.
What’s in a label? It’s different for boys vs. girls, new study of parents finds
A new study by psychology researchers reveals that parents across the US are more likely to use gender-neutral labels for boys than for girls, reinforcing the notion of a male default in child-directed speech. This bias has significant consequences for issues of gender equity.
Airlines with more women at the top are more efficient
Research led by Universitat Oberta de Catalunya analyzed 45 airline groups before and after the Covid pandemic, finding that airlines with greater gender diversity on their boards and in executive teams exhibited greater efficiency. Airlines could improve efficiency by 1.9% to 3.2% if they increase female representation to at least 25%.
Discriminated groups create safe spaces online
Digital safe spaces are created by marginalized groups to feel protected from online harassment and oppression. These spaces, often with strict rules and moderation, provide a sense of community and well-being for their participants.
Remote work “a protective shield” against gender discrimination
A survey of over 1,000 professional women found that remote work significantly reduces everyday gender discrimination. On-site, women experience 31% more gender discrimination than while working remotely.
Teachers express extreme concern about influence of online misogyny on students
A survey of 200 UK teachers found that 76% of secondary school teachers and 60% of primary school teachers are extremely concerned about the influence of online misogyny on their students. The study reveals that male students often reflect misogynistic ideas, while female students face victims of misogyny in schools.
Female sports journalists nowhere to be found on Twitch during Qatar World Cup
A study conducted by Universitat Oberta de Catalunya researchers found that only 6.7% of voices on Twitch during the 2022 FIFA World Cup were female journalists. The study highlights a lack of representation, with women appearing sporadically and in secondary roles.
Women health sector leaders good for a nation’s wealth, health, innovation, ethics
A scoping review found women health sector leaders have a positive impact on financial performance, innovation and health outcomes, despite being underutilized. Increased investment is needed to maximize their potential and reap benefits.
Reviews of movies with female- versus male-dominated casts found to contain more sexist language
A new study found that movie reviews with female- versus male-dominated casts contain more sexist language, with critics often perpetuating biases against women. The analysis of 17,165 reviews highlights the need for a more equitable film industry, where women are better represented in leading roles and receive fair criticism.
Political commitment is discouraged by digital violence
A study by Technical University of Munich finds that digital violence discourages political participation, particularly among women, who experience sexualized online attacks. The survey shows that more than half of those affected modify their behavior, including giving up on politics entirely.
Understanding bias and discrimination in AI: Why sociolinguistics holds the key to better Large Language Models and a fairer world
A new study aims to address bias and discrimination in AI by leveraging sociolinguistics. By incorporating diverse dialects, registers, and periods of language into training data, researchers can improve the performance of large language models, making them more accurate and reliable. This approach also promotes ethical and socially aw...
Bias in AI amplifies our own biases
A new study by UCL researchers found that AI systems amplify human biases, leading to a snowball effect where small initial biases increase the risk of human error. The researchers demonstrated real-world consequences, including overestimating white men's likelihood of holding high-status jobs and underestimating women's performance.
Systematic bias may sway family courts and affect parental rights, particularly for fathers
A new study reveals how biases in family court decisions harm fathers and their children. The research found that systemic inequities, including racism, Islamophobia, and sexism, often lead to unjust custody outcomes. Key findings suggest that these biases can have a lasting impact on the lives of families.
UOC researchers design a tool to detect biases in AI developments
LangBiTe detects biases in AI responses, allowing users to define their own ethical concerns and adapt the evaluation of bias. The tool includes libraries with over 300 prompts focusing on specific ethical issues, such as ageism, LGBTIQA+phobia, and sexism.
Study exposes high injury rates in transgender women
A new study found significantly higher injury rates among transgender women compared to cisgender women, with increased risk of head, facial, and chest injuries. The findings emphasize the need for timely IPV screening and support for vulnerable populations.
Transgender, gender-diverse preteens less physically active than peers
Research reveals transgender and gender-diverse preteens are 15% less physically active than cisgender peers, with 1,394 fewer steps taken daily. This disparity may be due to stigma and discrimination discouraging team sports participation.
Breaking down bias in the NFT marketplace: Study reveals female and Black avatars sell for less—and offers solutions to promote equality
Researchers found that female CryptoPunks avatars were sold at a 37% lower price than their male counterparts, while Black CryptoPunks avatars were sold at a 31% lower price than White counterparts. Avatars with features associated with high-tech or higher education countered these disparities.
Gender inequality ingrained in global climate negotiations, say researchers
Climate change exacerbates systemic inequalities, particularly for women, girls, and gender minorities. Researchers call for greater inclusion of their voices in climate governance discussions to address disproportionate health impacts and promote gender equity.
Experiences of discrimination linked to postpartum weight retention
A study by University of Pittsburgh researchers found that Black patients are two to three times as likely to retain or gain additional weight compared to white counterparts. The study suggests interventions addressing the underlying stressors of discrimination could complement community and clinical interventions.
Variation in the measurement of sexual orientations is associated with sexual orientation-related mental health disparities
A study found that differences in sexual orientation measurement approaches lead to underestimation of the sexual minority population and their mental health disparities. The research used two survey questions to measure sexual orientation, detecting more respondents as sexual minorities than traditional labels.
Gendered bilingualism in post-colonial Korea
Research finds that Korean newspapers often focused on women learning Japanese for work and social purposes, not just reading novels. The ability to speak Japanese gave women new opportunities and challenged traditional roles in Korea.
AI tools show biases in ranking job applicants’ names according to perceived race and gender
Researchers found significant bias in AI-powered hiring systems, with LLMs favoring white-associated names 85% of the time, female-associated names only 11% of the time, and never Black male-associated names. The study highlights the need for intersectional analysis to ensure fairness in AI systems.
Cost-of-living crisis impacted Black health – study
A study by Anglia Ruskin University found that rising inflation and bank rates led to increased discrimination against Black people in the UK, resulting in poorer general and mental health outcomes. The study highlights the disproportionate impact of the cost-of-living crisis on minority groups.
Critical steps and more research needed to support physicians’ mental health, experts say
Researchers say implementing established strategies is critical to addressing the physician well-being crisis, including reducing workload and facilitating timely mental health treatment. The review also highlights the need for policies supporting diverse perspectives to improve well-being among underrepresented groups.
Absolute numbers of women matter more than proportion for achieving gender equity in STEM
A recent study from Kyushu University found that the absolute number of women in STEM departments significantly influences research output, fostering a supportive environment and promoting higher and more stable results. Traditional metrics focusing solely on proportion show little correlation with academic performance.
Marginalized entrepreneurs forge their own paths
A new paper by Rowena Crabbe explores how entrepreneurship can help marginalized groups surmount obstacles, including limited access to capital, social closure, and consumer discrimination. The research identifies conditions for success, such as self-employment, products for unmet needs, and processes that lower barriers.
WVU cybersecurity researcher targeting security vulnerabilities, racial bias with NSF CAREER Award support
Karimian's research will investigate common hardware-based attacks on biometric systems, including spoofing, template, side-channel, and fault-injection attacks. He also aims to develop a hardware-based biometric template protection system that addresses bias in facial recognition software.