New research conducted by the American Psychological Association highlights the prevalent issue of gender bias encountered by young female chess enthusiasts. This bias is observed not only within the male-dominated chess community but also among their mentors and parents.
The research, published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology: General, marks a significant step in shedding light on the gender bias that young female chess players often confront. The study involved 286 parents and mentors of 654 children from a U.S. Chess Federation mailing list. Notably, 90% of the adults were men, and 81% of the children were boys, underscoring the existing gender disparities in the chess world.
According to the survey responses, parents and mentors tended to underestimate the potential of girls in chess, particularly if they believed that exceptional brilliance was a prerequisite for success in the game. Mentors, who endorsed this belief, were more inclined to express concerns about female mentees dropping out of chess due to perceived low ability.
The gender dynamics in the world of chess have long favored men, with only 14% of all U.S. Chess Federation players being girls or women in 2020. More than 100 prominent female chess players and coaches recently came together to address issues of “sexist and sexual violence” within the chess community, identifying it as a significant deterrent for women and young girls, especially in their teenage years.
The research also suggests that gender bias may deter girls from even considering competitive chess if their parents and mentors lack confidence in their potential. While parents acknowledged the existence of a less supportive environment for girls in chess, neither parents nor mentors believed that unsupportiveness would lead to a higher dropout rate among female players.
It’s worth noting that the study did not include a sufficient number of mothers and female mentors to discern whether their views differed from those of fathers and male mentors. Additionally, the participants’ involvement in competitive chess and extensive interactions with the players they were rating could have influenced their perspectives, potentially reducing bias.
Looking ahead, despite a resurgence of interest in chess among girls and boys across the United States, addressing gender bias in the chess world remains a pressing concern. Structural support for all female players is crucial to enhance the chess experience for girls and women, and the research emphasizes that bias can emanate even from those closest to them.
Reference: “Checking Gender Bias: Parents and Mentors Perceive Less Chess Potential in Girls” by Sophie Arnold, BA, Wei Ji Ma, PhD, Andrei Cimpian, PhD, April H. Bailey, PhD, and Jennifer Shahade, Woman Grandmaster, International Chess Federation, New York University, University of New Hampshire, 5 October 2023, Journal of Experimental Psychology: General. DOI: 10.1037/xge0001466
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about ChessGenderBias
What is the main finding of the research on young female chess players?
The main finding of the research indicates that young female chess players often face gender bias, with many believing that girls have less potential to succeed in chess compared to boys.
How was the research conducted?
The research involved 286 parents and mentors of 654 children, all affiliated with the U.S. Chess Federation. The participants, primarily men, shared their perceptions of girls’ chess potential through an online survey.
What role do parents and mentors play in perpetuating gender bias in chess?
The study found that parents and mentors who believed that exceptional brilliance was required for success in chess were more likely to underestimate the potential of young female chess players, potentially leading to concerns about them dropping out of the game.
Why is gender bias in chess a significant issue?
Gender bias in chess is a significant issue because it discourages girls from participating in competitive chess and can lead to fewer opportunities for women in the sport. It also contributes to the gender disparity that has long existed in the chess community.
Are there any recommendations for addressing gender bias in chess?
The research suggests that continued structural support for all female players is needed to improve their experiences in chess. Recognizing and addressing bias, even among parents and mentors, is essential for creating a more inclusive chess community.
More about ChessGenderBias
- American Psychological Association
- Journal of Experimental Psychology: General
- U.S. Chess Federation
- Gender Disparities in Chess
- Women in Chess
