Representation of Black women in STEM roles in popular films

The representation of female STEM professionals in popular films influences the public perception of their participation and contributions in STEM. Moreover, it has been argued in the literature that media portrayals of the STEM professionals as white male characters, has created gender stereotypes that affect the participation of female STEM professionals from marginalized racial communities in the STEM professions. This study aims to employ content analysis techniques to examine the portrayals of women of color in 20 high-grossing sci-fi films from 2010-2020. We use the theoretical lens of intersectionality and the social identity theory to discuss the role of STEM media representations of women from racially marginalized communities on their STEM identity development. Specifically, we will be trying to answer the following research questions: 1) how women from marginalized racial groups are represented in STEM roles in popular films? and 2) what is the ratio of their representation in STEM professional roles in proportion to white male STEM professionals? This study will highlight the trends and stereotypes about women of color in popular films. Also, the findings will call for action against negative/lower representation of women of color in STEM roles so that gender stereotypes against them could be eliminated.