Final answer:
Women are more likely to major in psychology in college, while also being supported to pursue STEM through initiatives by organizations like AAUW and NASA.
Step-by-step explanation:
Females are more likely than males to select psychology as a major in college. Studies suggest that interests and societal influences guide the selection of academic fields, with females often gravitating towards psychology, a field that allows for the application of critical thinking, use of the scientific method, and critical evaluation of sources of information. Various initiatives, such as programs sponsored by the American Association of University Women and NASA, have been working to support girls in science and math from a young age, aiming to increase female representation in STEM fields.
In pursuing a career as a psychology professor, one would typically need to earn a PhD in psychology. Engineering, on the other hand, requires extensive study in both mathematics and science. Despite the efforts to encourage female participation in STEM, women remain underrepresented in many fields of science and medicine, indicating the need for continued support and advocacy.
Most psychology professors have a PhD, and overcoming gender biases remains a challenge in science and engineering fields.