An Improbable Study Choice : Understanding the Presence of Male Students in 'Female' Study Tracks of Higher Education in France

Much research has been carried out on the differences between study choices of girls and boys at different steps of their schooling, showing how influential gender norms are. On the contrary, few studies have examined “atypical” choices, particularly among boys. Yet, such choices may be a strategic point for observing and understanding gender norms. In my ongoing qualitative research project, I intend to develop this field of study. Drawing on tools from sociology of education, sociology of professions and gender studies, I analyze the atypical paths of male students in the French higher education system. I conduct interviews (male and female students, teaching and administrative staff members) and observations (classes, selection committees, open door events, teacher meetings, etc.) in two “female” study tracks: midwifery and social work. In this presentation, I will focus on the male students’ decision to study in a “female” study track itself: how to explain this improbable study choice? I will argue that this is the result of a combination of pulling processes developed by the higher education institutions and several variables concerning the male students – especially their gendered primary socialization and their social origins. I will, thus, shed light on three different male students’ profiles: (1) the ones for whom studying in a “female” study track is a deliberate choice, (2) the ones for whom it is a pragmatic choice and (3) the ones for whom it is a temporary choice.Présenté lors de la conférence "Education & Society: Access, Opportunity & Equity", SESP et Sciences Po, Northwestern University, Evanston,Etats-Unis, 14 avril