Reversing Gender Stereotypes in STEM Education in a Gender-Segregated Region

Women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields and degree programs are a minority in most countries throughout the world; however, countries such as Kuwait, UAE, Sweden, and Iran show the opposite trend. In fact, in Kuwait, an Arabic country with gender segregation regulations, females have reversed the gender stereotype of the female minority in STEM fields. This research developed a STEM Educational model for Arab/Persian Gulf regions to study causes of reversed gender stereotypes. The results show 14 influential factors on males developing the Peter Pan syndrome, men who never grew up— living a pattern that does not give them time to develop the psychological maturity needed skills. Furthermore, 16 factors marked females as a High Ability Learner where she develops more abilities, interests, and psychological maturity. Males and females' stereotypes lead to reverse gender outcomes in STEM fields.