A new study led by researchers at Michigan State University offers concrete guidance on how parents can effectively support girls and women pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Published in the Annals of the International Communication Association in 2025, the research titled “STEM career interest development and persistence: what parents do, say, and should say,” explores the specific types of assistance that help young women navigate educational and career challenges in male-dominated fields. [1]
The study involved interviews with Black, Latina, and white women majoring in STEM across the United States. Participants were asked to reflect on the STEM-related support they received during their upbringing. The findings identified five distinct categories of parental support that contributed significantly to the participants' success and persistence in their fields. [1]
The most commonly reported form of support was advice, or instrumental support. This included practical assistance such as suggesting specific majors, guiding applications to colleges, sharing tips on studying, and distributing job or internship postings. The women in the study valued advice that was clear, relevant to their personal interests, and concrete. Conversely, they expressed frustration with vague guidance or advice that prioritized parental desires over the child’s own passions. [1]
Resource provision emerged as another critical support mechanism. While this includes purchasing STEM books, enrolling children in after-school activities, and visiting museums, the study highlighted lower-cost interventions that proved equally valuable. These included cooking meals to allow focused homework time, providing transportation to classes, and investing time to help with difficult assignments. [1]
Emotional support played a vital role in helping young women cope with the unique challenges of STEM environments. Women in STEM often face feelings of not belonging or struggling to see themselves represented in scientific narratives. The study found that parental empathy, validation of the difficulty of the subjects, and reminders about long-term goals rather than immediate grades were crucial for mental well-being. This type of support does not require extensive STEM knowledge from the parent, but rather active listening and validation. [1]
Estimate support, which involves affirming strengths and boosting self-esteem, was also identified as beneficial. By expressing pride in accomplishments and reinforcing confidence, parents can help protect young women against self-doubt. Additionally, the study noted the importance of networking support, where parents leverage their own connections to introduce children to industry professionals or help them find mentors when they lack specific knowledge about the field. [1]
The researchers emphasize that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to supporting a child in STEM. Instead, parents are encouraged to stay attuned to their child's developmental stage and specific challenges. Making advice specific and relevant—for example, linking a child's interest in engineering to specific programs—can significantly enhance the effectiveness of parental involvement. [1]
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