Why confidence matters: The hidden barrier for women in STEM

Abstract

"Despite strong educational achievements, women in Germany remain underrepresented in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) careers – an imbalance that fuels the gender pay gap, as these fields tend to offer higher wages. Beyond structural barriers, psychological factors such as confidence play a crucial role in shaping educational and labour market choices. Research suggests that gender differences in confidence help explain persistent inequalities, though these confidence gaps vary across contexts and domains." (Author's abstract, IAB-Doku) ((en))

Cite article

Hecker, B. & Yükselen Saif, I. (2026): Why confidence matters: The hidden barrier for women in STEM. In: IAB-Forum No. 05.08.2026. DOI:10.4872.IAB.FOO.20260805.01