Sparking an Interest: A Qualitative Study of Latina Science Identity Development

Latinas are noticeably underrepresented in science majors, yet only limited research investigates specific behaviors and events that encourage Latinas’ connection to science. This study uses an ecocultural framework to identify socialization factors that promote the development of Latina science identities. Thirty-two college-aged Latinas in science-related majors participated in focus groups, and an additional 12 participated in interviews. Using interactive qualitative analysis (Northcutt & McCoy, 2004), we found 8 factors that influenced the development of a science identity: home environment, teacher influences, school experiences, contextual factors, media, using your brain, emotions, and career planning. Participants saw the first 4 factors as initiators of their development, with media as an irregular contributor. These environmental factors were filtered through the individual factors of using your brain and emotions, with career planning as the outcome. The results overall support that Latina science identity development results from a system of influences, with parents and teachers providing the foundations of interest and school experiences providing the impetus toward specific subject matter.