Technological effects on gender studies: An intersectional perspective

This study offers a comprehensive and critical exploration of the intersections between technologization, digitalization, and gender dynamics in contemporary digital culture. Historically, feminist discourses have been rooted in socio-political paradigms; however, the emergence of cyberfeminism and the growing complexity of gendered experiences in digital environments have redefined both the epistemic and practical boundaries of gender studies. Through a systematic literature review of recent, high-impact research, the paper examines whether digital transformation represents a paradigmatic shift in the construction, performance, and contestation of gender identities. The analysis reveals that while digital technologies hold significant emancipatory potential—facilitating anonymity, accessibility, and expanded public participation—they frequently replicate and even intensify patriarchal norms. This occurs through mechanisms such as cyberviolence, algorithmic bias, digital exclusion, and the ongoing underrepresentation of women in STEM fields. The findings underscore those digital spaces are not ideologically neutral or inherently egalitarian; rather, they operate as contested terrains where power relations are renegotiated and embodied in novel forms. Furthermore, the review highlights geographic and disciplinary disparities in scholarly focus, as well as thematic patterns linking digital culture to structural disadvantages faced by women and marginalized gender identities. By integrating insights from sociology, feminist theory, communication studies, health informatics, and STEM education, the article argues for the urgent development of intersectional, gender-sensitive policies, as well as multi-stakeholder collaborations. Such frameworks are essential to resist the re-inscription of masculine dominance and to promote the emergence of inclusive, equitable technological ecosystems that foster genuine gender equality.