Gender Roles
Articles tagged with Gender Roles
Why surgery still looks like an ‘old boys’ club and what actually fixes it
A new study from the University of Surrey found that surgeons from underrepresented groups are more likely to leave training and less likely to be promoted in environments dominated by White men. The study suggests that formal rules and systems are not enough to overcome informal networks and cultural factors that perpetuate inequality.
How to equip girls for an increasingly AI-driven world
A new study found that girls struggle to master AI due to low confidence and limited institutional support. To overcome this, schools should provide more female role models and create a supportive classroom environment.
INSPIRE Second Conference Inclusive Gender Equality in R&I from an intersectional perspective: Lessons from INSPIRE for the evidence base, practice and policy
The INSPIRE Conference will discuss key project findings, tools, and resources on inclusive gender equality in research and innovation. The event aims to sustain change and address future challenges through dialogue among policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders.
Women are being shut out of workplaces because of a hidden time gap, new research shows
A new study by University of East London researchers reveals that women are being shut out of workplaces due to a hidden time gap caused by unpaid care and rigid social expectations. This 'time squeeze' leaves women with less time for networking, training, and progression, hindering their career advancement.
Spousal loss linked to higher risk of dementia, mortality among men, but not women
A new study finds that widowed men experience poorer physical and mental health, while widowed women show resilience and improved well-being after losing their spouse. The study highlights the need for gender-specific strategies to support recovery after spousal loss.
Almost a third of Gen Z men agree a wife should obey her husband
A global study of 23,000 people found that Gen Z men are more likely to agree that a wife should obey her husband and have traditional views on decision-making within a marriage. Meanwhile, Gen Z women showed less agreement with these statements compared to Baby Boomer women.
When consent meets reality: How young men navigate intimacy
A study found that young men want consensual sex but face challenges with verbal implementation, instead relying on embodied and intuitive cues. The researchers suggest a 'grey area' between consent and non-consent exists.
EU award for "Gender Equality Champions" goes to Bielefeld University
Bielefeld University has been honoured by the European Union with its 'Sustainable Gender Equality Champion' award. The institution is recognized for its strategic gender equality work and commitment to promoting equal opportunities nationwide.
Girls are happiest at school – for good reasons
A new survey reveals a significant difference between girls' and boys' well-being at school. Girls are found to be happier than boys due to stronger connections with their peers and feeling safe at school. In contrast, boys tend to score lower in academic subjects like reading and science but excel in physical education.
Mothering in a time of crisis and anxiety is a society-wide job, new Concordia research shows
A new study by Concordia researchers explores how anxiety-inducing headlines fuel 'maternal responsibilization,' where mothers are expected to pick up the slack on addressing complex issues like climate change and social injustice. The research highlights the pressures of motherhood, including generational expectations to raise childre...
"Where are you going all alone?" Men as victims of verbal harassment through virtual reality
A recent study using virtual reality found that men who embodied a female avatar subjected to catcalling experienced strong feelings of anger and disgust, closely linked to moral disapproval. This type of reaction reflects the ability to put oneself in the victim's shoes and indicates moral disapproval of the behavior.
Very few regret a legal gender change in Sweden
A Swedish study found that nearly all transgender individuals who undergo a legal gender change do not experience regrets, with only 21 out of 2,467 participants reversing their decision over 10 years. The study provides strong evidence for the stability of gender changes in this population.
Getting a puppy poses mental health challenges alongside benefits for U.K. families
A new study reveals that puppy ownership can bring joy to parents and children, but also presents mental health challenges, including child-puppy interactions and caregiver responsibilities. To mitigate these risks, researchers recommend discussing dog-care responsibilities with children and attending safety training classes.
Women earn 25% less than men in wealthy households, finds study
A new analysis of the gender pay gap in the UK reveals that women in wealthier households earn 25% less than men, while those in poorer households experience a smaller 4% gap. The study highlights the importance of addressing societal penalties for being female and improving job quality to reduce the pay gap.
It's not all about size
A new study by Max Planck Institute scientists reveals female mountain gorillas can win one in four conflicts and outrank non-alpha males. They also enjoy priority access to food resources over males they overpower, blurring the traditional male-dominated narrative.
Female pilots perform better under pressure, study finds
A new study led by University of Waterloo researchers found that female pilots tend to make fewer flight control errors under stress, despite similar visual attention patterns. The findings challenge gender bias in aviation performance and suggest a need for more inclusive pilot training and evaluation systems.
Gender-fair job titles don’t shift teen career aspirations in healthcare, study finds
A French-language study found that gender-fair job titles do not influence adolescents' reported career interest or sense of belonging in nursing, surgery, and clinical psychology. The study suggests that more comprehensive strategies are needed to counter deeply rooted gendered expectations.
New study reveals gendered language patterns in children’s television across 60 years
A comprehensive new study analyzed scripts from nearly 7,000 episodes of children's TV shows in the US spanning 1960 to 2018. The research found enduring biased patterns in how male and female characters are portrayed through language, with men associated with agency and rewards, while women were linked to family and relationships.
Beyond the alpha male
A new study resolves why male-female power asymmetries vary across primate societies, finding that contests between males and females are common. The research reveals that female empowerment often relies on alternative pathways, such as reproductive strategies to gain control over matings.
Parents are not happier but have a greater sense of meaning in life
A study by University of Cologne researchers reveals that parenthood is associated with a greater sense of meaning in life, despite lower life satisfaction. The analysis of over 43,000 participants from 30 countries found that people who have children tend to feel their lives carry more value and worth.
Barbies today are much less likely to be on their tip-toes than in past decades
A study analyzing 2,750 Barbie dolls found that the percentage of dolls with tip-toe posture decreased over time, while employed versions were more likely to have flat feet. Fashion-focused dolls were more likely to have tip-toe posture. The study suggests changing workforce roles and laws may reflect in Barbie's foot posture.
Women’s earnings fall 10% four years after menopause diagnosis
A new UCL study found that women experience a significant 4.3% reduction in earnings on average four years after a menopause diagnosis, rising to 10% by the fourth year. Women without a university degree are disproportionately affected, with graduate women facing no earnings penalty.
Push to return to "traditional" masculinity imposes costs on men, BGU social psychologist maintains
A Ben-Gurion University social psychologist argues that toxic masculinity and traditional gender roles impose significant costs on men, affecting their personal and professional lives. Men are pressured to conform to narrow standards of masculinity, leading to increased stress and negative mental and physical health outcomes.
Teachers express extreme concern about influence of online misogyny on students
A survey of 200 UK teachers found that 76% of secondary school teachers and 60% of primary school teachers are extremely concerned about the influence of online misogyny on their students. The study reveals that male students often reflect misogynistic ideas, while female students face victims of misogyny in schools.
Lack of discussion drives traditional gender roles in parenthood
A new study by Dr Clare Stovell found that women usually lead conversations about parental duties, perpetuating traditional gender roles. Couples rarely discuss or negotiate work and family decisions, with men often assuming full-time work schedules.
New book takes in-depth look at first ladies, how the position has evolved
The Cambridge Companion to US First Ladies takes a holistic look at the position, its holders and their impact on the country. The book analyzes first ladies through various lenses, shedding light on often-overlooked details and their roles in shaping American history.
Political commitment is discouraged by digital violence
A study by Technical University of Munich finds that digital violence discourages political participation, particularly among women, who experience sexualized online attacks. The survey shows that more than half of those affected modify their behavior, including giving up on politics entirely.
York U professor’s new paper challenges tokenizing women of colour in academia
Assistant Professor Yvonne Su argues that inclusivity in academia is often superficial and conditional, rather than transformational. She advocates for institutional changes to create space and autonomy for women of colour academics to do their work.
Closing the green space gap: Addressing gender inequality in nature access
New research from the University of Surrey suggests that women and gender minorities encounter unique challenges in utilizing urban green spaces, which can limit their mental health benefits. These obstacles include safety concerns, inadequate facilities, social norms, and discrimination.
Wanjiru Kamau-Rutenberg takes leading role in African sustainable agricultural research efforts
Dr. Kamau-Rutenberg brings expertise in food systems, social inclusion, and gender-sensitive innovation to drive transformative change in Africa's agricultural development. She aims to harness agricultural biodiversity and sustainably transform food systems to improve people's lives.
Does feminism begin at home?
A study of Polish women found that their mothers' and daughters' views on feminism often converged, with pro-feminist attitudes being more prevalent among younger generations. The research suggests that family dynamics play a significant role in shaping women's worldviews on gender equality.
Beloved Disney classics convey an idealized image of fatherhood
A new study examines Disney's portrayal of fatherhood, revealing how it reflects Western societies' social values and ideals of masculinity. The research explores the evolution of fatherly roles in Disney films from 1940 to 1970, highlighting their impact on perceptions of masculinity across generations.
Research shows stress about personal finances may make leaders abusive in workplace
Financial stress can lead to abusive supervision, with men being more susceptible due to societal expectations of control. However, women also experience abuse but less frequently. Supportive leadership and social networks can counteract negative effects.
New study sheds light on the role of sound and music in gendered toy marketing
A groundbreaking study from Queen Mary University of London uncovers the role of music and soundscapes in toy advertising, revealing how they convey and reinforce gender stereotypes. The research highlights the need for more comprehensive regulation to address the societal implications of these messages.
Sexist textbooks? Review of over 1200 English-language textbooks from 34 countries reveals persistent pattern of stereotypical gender roles and under-representation of female characters across countries
A study analyzing over 1200 English-language school textbooks from 34 countries found a persistent pattern of stereotypical gender roles, with male-coded words appearing twice as often as female-coded words. The analysis also revealed under-representation of female characters in textbooks across countries.
Interview with Lee Crawfurd, Center for Global Development, United Kingdom
A study published by PLOS ONE analyzed 1,255 books from 34 countries and found that sexist stereotypes are prevalent globally. Lee Crawfurd's research highlights a need for balanced content in textbooks to broaden options for both boys and girls.
Self-esteem boosts sexual well-being – and vice versa
A long-term study of over 11,000 German adults found that people with higher self-esteem tend to have more satisfying sexual relationships and that the two factors influence each other. The study showed significant correlations over time, with changes in sexual satisfaction leading to changes in self-esteem.
Gender equity paradox: sex differences in reading and science as academic strengths are largest in gender-equal countries
A new study reveals sex differences in academic strengths, with girls' strength typically in reading and boys' in mathematics or science. In gender-equal countries like Finland, these patterns are more pronounced, suggesting women may choose non-STEM fields based on their reading strength.
Women at risk of ‘digital overload’ – new research reveals
A new study by Lancaster University highlights that women are more likely than men to experience 'digital overload' and burnout due to their greater use of digital technologies in both work and family lives. The research emphasizes the need for gender-egalitarian work-from-home arrangements and policies to address this issue.
Moms think more about household chores − and this cognitive burden hurts their mental health
Research found mothers carry a 73% share of cognitive household labor compared to partners' 27%, contributing to mental health issues. The study highlights the invisible dimension of household labor that affects women's well-being and relationship quality.
Even in ‘care work,’ women face lower wages if they have kids
A new study has found that mothers working in traditionally 'women's work' fields experience a significant wage penalty after becoming parents. Women without children earn up to 12% more than their mother counterparts, highlighting the persistence of patriarchal biases in the workplace.
Workplace bullying in developing countries is wearing women down
A University of South Australia study reveals that workplace bullying against women in Pakistan is driving emotional exhaustion and job dissatisfaction. Women are disproportionately affected by verbal, emotional, social, and physical/sexual bullying, with 30% globally experiencing it.
Treatment from female doctors leads to lower mortality and hospital readmission rates
Research suggests that female physicians have a clinically significant impact on patient outcomes, with lower mortality and readmission rates compared to male doctors. Female patients benefit more significantly from treatment by female physicians, possibly due to better communication and understanding of sensitive health issues.
Gender stereotypes in schools impact on girls and boys with mental health difficulties, study finds
Researchers found that schools' perception of girls as more emotionally open leads to them being prioritized for mental health support, while boys are often overlooked due to disruptive behaviors. This creates a new form of gender inequality, where both genders remain 'trapped' in unhelpful stereotypes.
How youth and women are key to Senegal’s farming future
A new survey reveals a significant knowledge gap about women and youth farming practices in Senegal, despite their crucial role in agriculture. The study highlights opportunities for training, access to efficient markets, and climate information services to improve agricultural skills and boost productivity.
Unlike men, for professional women, having high-status connections can backfire
Women with high-status contacts actually lose status, whereas men benefit from their networks. Researchers found that women who form ties with higher-status people are seen as dominant and subject to social penalties. Organizations can take steps to reframe network building activities to protect the status perception of women.
Women may find it harder to adjust to later life divorce and break-ups than men
A large long-term study found that women's antidepressant use increases after later life divorce or break-up, with a significant increase in the 4 years leading up to the event. Women's use tends to tail off only slightly and briefly after re-partnering, while men's use returns to pre-break-up levels within a year.
Important to involve both parents in breastfeeding
A new study from Uppsala University highlights the importance of involving both parents in breastfeeding support. The study found that partners who were included in the breastfeeding process felt more involved and collaborative with their mothers. This approach can lead to better lactation outcomes and increased confidence for new moth...
Male gender expression in schools is associated with substance abuse later in life
A new study by University of Chicago researchers found that changes in male gender expression from adolescence to young adulthood align closely with school environment norms and are associated with subsequent patterns of substance abuse. The study suggests that public health experts can play a role in countering detrimental cultural na...
Unilateral divorce laws may improve women's welfare, reducing the time spent carrying out housework and increasing time devoted to leisure activities and personal care
New research suggests that unilateral divorce laws could lead to improved women's welfare by reducing the time spent on household chores. This shift in responsibility could result in more time devoted to personal care and leisure activities.
Challenging prehistoric gender roles: Research finds that women were hunters, too
A team of researchers found little evidence to support the notion that roles were assigned specifically to each sex during the Paleolithic era. Women's physiology and anatomy revealed they were physically capable of hunting, with advantages in endurance activities.
Job ads which use masculine rather than gender-inclusive language are perceived by women as sexist, leading them to feel ostracized, demotivated, and as though they don't belong at work
Research reveals women are negatively impacted by gender-exclusive language in job ads, feeling excluded and disengaged from the workplace. A preregistered replication confirms previous findings on the topic.
Witchcraft accusations an ‘occupational hazard’ for female workers in early modern England
Historian Dr Philippa Carter argues that jobs like food preparation, childcare, and dairy production left women exposed to witchcraft accusations. These occupations, often performed by women, were perceived as a threat to social order, increasing the likelihood of suspicion and accusation.
New research sheds light on how gender inequality in the media industry impacts job satisfaction
A new study by City University of London researchers found that lower perceptions of gender equality and workplace sexual harassment significantly impact job satisfaction in newsrooms globally. The study highlights the need for structural changes to combat inequalities affecting women in the industry, including policies to address all ...
Solidarity and resistance: Key to Las Kellys' making themselves seen
The Las Kellys collective has constructed its identity through solidarity and resistance, uniting hotel room attendants and other feminized and precarious workers in Spain. Their strategy has led to increased media attention, public debate, and political repercussions, shedding light on the poor working conditions faced by these workers.
Sexually active women are not judged more harshly than men
A new survey found no evidence of a sexual double standard, with men being judged more strictly in short-term relationships but equally as in long-term ones. Women's masturbation is also seen as sexy and accepted, contradicting common stereotypes.
Study reveals how blame is attributed to male and female leaders
A new study reveals that female leaders are attributed to bad luck when they fail, whereas male leaders' negative outcomes are blamed on their selfish decisions. In a laboratory setting, researchers found biases in the attribution of outcomes that favor women.
Shocking implications of electric fishes’ tailless sperm
Researchers at Michigan State University are investigating a type of fish that produces sperm with no tails but an electric-powered mating call. They hope to understand the energy-saving mechanism behind this trait and its implications for human health, particularly in relation to a genetic disorder called primary ciliary dyskinesia.
Stereotypical gender roles thrive on film
A recent study analyzing 34 Hollywood films found that stereotypical gender roles persist, with men depicted as aggressive and powerful, and women as loving and caring. However, the analysis also showed a significant increase in female representation over the past two decades.