Women leave psychology research more often than men, especially early in their careers
Today, women are more likely than men to begin an academic career in psychology. Nevertheless, they leave research substantially more often, particularly during the first years after entering the field.
This research provides insight into why women leave psychology research more frequently than men, particularly in the early stages of their careers. Analyzing over 78,000 academic trajectories, the Max Planck Institute for Human Development found that while women make up more than 60% of new entrants into psychological research, they are more likely to exit the field.
The study, published in the journal American Psychologist, reveals a significant attrition gap emerging around the fourth to sixth years following the first scientific publication. During this period, the risk of leaving research increases substantially, particularly for women. Early publication output is identified as the strongest predictor of long-term retention, with a higher number of first-authored papers associating with a greater likelihood of remaining in active research.
Factors such as collaboration networks, institutional conditions, and parental status influence retention, but their impact is comparatively minor. The research underscores the need for targeted science policies focusing on early career retention, including mentorship, transparent evaluations, and supportive conditions for balancing research with family responsibilities.
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