Women from low socio-economic backgrounds see themselves as less talented

Fig. C: Pexels / Zen Chung How distorted self-images carry a negative impact on chances of success Women from low socio-economic backgrounds consider themselves to be less talented than all other groups - even if they show the same performance levels. This is shown by a new study led by Christina Bauer at the University of Vienna. This misconception contributes to the pronounced disadvantage in domains such as STEM subjects, where talent is seen as an important success factor. Social psychologist Christina Bauer has now published these key findings from her latest research in the current issue of the renowned journal Learning and Instruction - and suggests possible solutions to this problem. Women and people from low socio-economic backgrounds are often seen as less talented, which can contribute to experiences of discrimination. "While a man with very good grades is more likely to be judged as a genius, women with the same achievements are more likely to be seen as hard-working, for example," explains Christina Bauer.