Men are significantly under-represented across psychology undergraduate and postgraduate courses and in many areas of applied practice. In Northern Ireland, less than 20 per cent of students studying undergraduate psychology are male (HESA, 2025).   

Panel discussion members: Connor Machin (Queen's), Eoin McIlroy (Ulster University), Professor Ross White (Queen's) as chair, Dr John McMullen (Queen's)

At the same time, women remain under-represented in senior roles, showing that psychology faces a complex gender picture. 

In a bid to address the issue, academics from the School of Psychology at Queen’s organised an event, in partnership with the Northern Ireland British Psychology Society, Open University and Ulster University.

The event included presentations from researchers, policymakers and practitioners. Queen’s research with A-level students was presented on the day. It highlighted the need to promote psychology as a science and a multi-faceted discipline, and to provide more male role models.

Dr Graham-Wisener comments: “The gender gap in psychology is complex – with men under-represented in undergraduate and postgraduate courses, as well as many areas of applied practice, and women under-represented in senior roles."

She adds: “Today we came together to discuss the issue and examine how we can collectively support the development of a psychology profession that reflects the population it seeks to serve.” 

Geraldine O’Hare, Chair of the Northern Ireland British Psychology Society,(NIBPS) says: “As Chair of the NIBPS I was ncredibly proud to be in attendance at this very important seminar to discuss the gender disparities in Psychology. 

“There was a superb line up of speakers and contributors who shared their views and research, their career pathways and ambitions in pursuing Psychology as a chosen career. 

“Dr Lisa Graham-Wisener and the team are providing the necessary leadership to drive forward evidence-based actions to enhance and motivate males to enter Psychology as a choice of university and as a career, as well as addressing the need to increase recruitment and retention of males into our great profession.” 

Dr Geraldine O’Hare (Chairperson, Northern Ireland British Psychological Society) and Professor Nichola Rooney (Chief Psychological Professions Officer, Department of Health)

The event is an example of partnership working between the three universities and the professional body for psychologists in Northern Ireland.  
 
Delegates took part in a roundtable discussion to come up with solutions on how to address the gender imbalance in psychology. The organisations will now use this information to inform future work. 
 

Media

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