Academia in the Time of COVID-19: Examining Experiences of Oppression Amongst STEM Women Faculty

Abstract

This research highlights the voices of 92 STEM women in academia who responded to a series of open-ended questions regarding their experiences of oppression during the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact of those oppressive experiences. Consensual Qualitative Research-Modified (CQR-M) was chosen as a methodological and analytical approach, as it allows for examination of large samples with brief qualitative data. The main findings reveal substantial concerns about the frequency and content of participants’ experiences of marginalization, particularly overt and covert sexism and racism and disadvantages to mothers and caregivers during the pandemic. Additionally, the results highlight the impacts of marginalization, including work disruptions, within-person changes, and mental health concerns. Clinical implications, future research directions, and social advocacy interventions in the context of COVID-19’s lasting impact on remote work and tenure acquisition will be discussed.

Keywords

COVID-19 STEM oppression racism sexism work–family interface Consensual Qualitative Research-Modified (CQR-M)women faculty

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