The Impact of Gender Bias on University Choice: An Empirical Analysis of Female Underconfidence on a Group of Students of a TrEC Course

The primary aim of this thesis is to examine the influence of gender biases, specifically underconfidence among females, on decision-making in relation to the selection of universities. Furthermore, the study aims to investigate the potential impact of accurate information about real abilities on individuals' perceptions of their own capabilities and those of others. To achieve this objective, a research experiment was conducted on a sample of 73 second-year Bachelor of Economics and Business Studies students enrolled at Padua University. The experiment involved a mathematics quiz and, at the end of it, the choice between two options: the initial one presented was a guaranteed win; whereas the second choice encompassed an uncertain yet potentially higher win, that was only accessible to those who ranked among the top performers in the quiz. Before taking the latter, participants completed questionnaires assessing their attitudes toward risk, competitiveness, and self-confidence. The results of the study indicate that, on average, female students exhibit greater levels of underconfidence and risk aversion and lower levels of competitiveness than male students. Additionally, self-confidence was found to significantly impact decision-making in relation to risk and competitiveness. However, the intervention employed in the study did not yield statistically significant outcomes in terms of countering the misperception of ability during the decision-making process. These findings suggest that interventions aimed at addressing gender bias should encompass measures to build confidence and provide social and academic support to surmount psychological barriers.