Channel 4's new gameshow Secret Genius, hosted by Alan Carr and Susie Dent, has uncovered a striking trend: women consistently underestimate their intelligence. The show, which searches for undiscovered high-IQ individuals across the UK, has seen female contestants excel in Mensa-designed puzzles, yet many struggle with self-doubt.
Dr Sonja Falck, a Mensa member and psychotherapist, notes that while men and women score similarly on general intelligence tests, women often lack confidence. This is reflected in the show's semi-final lineup, which was two-thirds female, despite Mensa's membership being two-thirds male. The final, airing on 1 March, features an equal gender split.
Contestants like Ollie, an ambulance driver with a photographic memory, and Jo, a sports management consultant, exemplify this hesitancy. Ollie entered out of 'morbid curiosity' to see if she was 'dim-witted,' while Jo nearly lost a round because she doubted her correct answer. Finalist Amy, a pharmacist and mother, has overcome childhood bullying to gain confidence throughout the competition.
The gender disparity in self-promotion is supported by research. A 2024 Harvard Business School study found that talented women are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet 100% of criteria, whereas men apply with just 60%. Dr Falck attributes this to cultural norms that historically favour male intelligence and discourage women from outperforming men.
Despite these challenges, the show's female contestants have proven their abilities, with many gaining a newfound belief in themselves. Whether or not Amy wins the title of 'Secret Genius,' her journey has been a testament to overcoming self-doubt.
