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MENTAL MODEL · M0712

Matilda Effect

Matilda Effect
Learn & MetacognitionHigh supportCognitive Science
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Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30

CORE DEFINITION

Refers to the phenomenon where the achievements of female scientists are often attributed to their male colleagues. This is not only a matter of gender but also a cognitive 'halo plundering'.

SCAFFOLDING EFFECT

psychology

Reduce cognitive load

Correcting attribution of credit. In team retrospectives, be wary of this subconscious bias—we tend to attribute credit to those who are vocal, high-status, or fit stereotypes, while overlooking the 'invisible' individuals who make core contributions quietly.

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The contributions of female scientists are systematically undervalued or attributed to men. The mechanism is gender bias and misallocation of credit.

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Source support: Explicit

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    en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matilda_effectZH · Explicit
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