1. When people think of computer science the image that immediately pops into many of their minds is of the computer geek surrounded by such things as computer games, science fiction memorabilia and junk food. That stereotype doesn’t appeal to many women who don’t like the portrait of masculinity that it evokes… [Ambient belonging] is the sense you get right away when you walk into a room. You look at the objects and make an instant appraisal of how you would fit with the objects and the people who are typically found in that environment. You also make a judgment of ‘I like it here’ or ‘I don’t belong here.’
    –

    Sapna Cheryan, a University of Washington assistant professor of psychology, and the lead author of a study that shows the environment and trappings of computer science is what turns women away, not the field itself (via Physorg.)

    Ambient belonging is so powerful. Immediately I can think of lots of examples from my own life. Universities (I love the idea of ADFA, but couldn’t go because imagine not being able to wear your own clothes on campus?), real estate (ugh, these people have framed movie posters, I can’t buy this house), gyms (I want to be healthy, not hang around with roid ragers and protein powder eaters) and social activism (I couldn’t go to that protest, I don’t have dreadlocks).

    Ultimately every behavioural or purchasing choice you make is based on something as soft and emotional as how it accords with your vision of yourself.

    (via somethingchanged)

    2 years ago  /  20 notes  /  Source: somethingchanged

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