Effects of gender harassment on science popularization behaviors

Public Underst Sci. 2020 Oct;29(7):718-728. doi: 10.1177/0963662520946667. Epub 2020 Aug 5.

Abstract

In this pilot study, we used a mixed methods online survey to ask science popularizers how gender harassment influences the way they communicate science to the public. Popularizers reported that gender harassment caused the science popularization field to increasingly strive for gender inclusivity in the creation of content. However, harassment made female popularizers feel they must emphasize their legitimacy, quite conscious of their clothing choices, and wary of engaging the public through mediums or topics that provoke more severe harassment. Implications for science communication and public engagement are discussed.

Keywords: gender harassment; public science communication; science popularization; social factors.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Gender Identity
  • Humans
  • Pilot Projects
  • Sexual Harassment* / prevention & control
  • Surveys and Questionnaires