ABSTRACT
Participation rates of women in science in industrialized countries, as in developing countries, are relatively low. Educational disparities at all levels between girls and boys are a primary cause of continuing female underrepresentation in science. Sociologists of education have compiled detailed evidence of classroom interactions between girls and boys and students and teachers in various settings. Women's experiences as scientists in the workplace usually differ from those of men. A British study found that girls were less interested in science that involved defense-funded work or animal experimentation. The proportion of female scientists decreases at the higher levels of appointment in industry, the civil service, and academia. Since the mid-1980s, efforts have been made in many countries to integrate women into nontraditional, science and technology based careers. Both in developing and in industrialized countries, employment prospects for female scientists are negatively affected by the women's need to combine professional and home responsibilities.
