The difference between the experiences and culture of urban and rural girls was explored, especially in terms of peer status, self-image and attitudes toward authority. Girls in rural communities may have experience in hands-on learning and craft knowledge that are useful to the practice of science, and often encounter less peer pressure against doing science, and may enjoy stronger community support than girls in urban schools.
Appalachian Girls’ Voices, middle school

“The connection between parental influence and children’s motivation and achievement in math and science has received increasing attention among researchers, as educators and policymakers search for ways to urge more students to pursue advanced studies and careers in those subjects.”
Cavanagh, S. (2007) When It comes to math and science, mom and dad count: Parent attitudes influence how their offspring take to those subjects. Education Week. Vol. 27, Issue 09, Page 8.

“A recent study by researchers at Pennsylvania State University, in University Park, and the University of Michigan, in Ann Arbor, for instance, found that fathers in particular have a major influence on whether their daughters develop an interest in math.”
Cavanagh, S. (2007) When It comes to math and science, mom and dad count: Parent attitudes influence how their offspring take to those subjects. Education Week. Vol. 27, Issue 09, Page 8.