Gender Studies
Articles tagged with Gender Studies
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.
UN Women report finds online violence and deepfakes drive women from public life
A new UN Women report reveals that online violence and deepfakes are pushing women out of public life, with alarming rates of mental health diagnoses and self-censorship. The study also found that law enforcement is often failing to provide justice for survivors, highlighting the need for effective education and training.
Gender matters in the brain/bone axis. APOE4, the Alzheimer’s risk gene, silently undermines bone quality in women
Researchers discovered that APOE4 causes bone quality deficits specifically in female mice, through a mechanism invisible to standard imaging. The study reveals an unexpected biological link between Alzheimer's risk and skeletal health, pointing to osteocytes as potential early warning signals for both conditions.
The brain’s emotional hub is linked to alcohol use differently in young men and women
A study found divergent neural pathways for drinking patterns in young men and women, highlighting the importance of sex-specific prevention strategies. Amygdala reactivity was associated with depressive symptoms in males, while females showed a 'threat-avoidance' profile with lower alcohol risk scores.
Internalization of homophobia and transphobia may undermine mental health benefits of religiosity or spirituality for LGBTQIA+ people, study finds
A McGill University study found that internalized homophobia and transphobia among LGBTQIA+ people of faith can undermine the positive mental health outcomes associated with religiosity and spirituality. Mindfulness may offer a supportive spiritual pathway outside non-affirming religious contexts.
Compulsory sex-marking as a threat to personal autonomy
The article explores how compulsory sex-marking perpetuates heterosexist oppression and represents a threat to individual autonomy. Ophelia Vedder argues that dismantling the hegemonic gender regime will lead to more autonomy for trans individuals.
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.
Accelerator programs have more work to do when it comes to supporting women entrepreneurs, research finds
Research by Prof. Sarah Kaplan found that social innovation accelerators showed no financial improvement for women-led businesses compared to male-led ventures. However, in more egalitarian contexts, accelerators were effective in supporting women entrepreneurs. The study highlights the need for accelerators to address broader ecosyste...
When an orgasm is consistently absent, women may see it as less important
Researchers found women devalue orgasm only when it's consistently absent across partners. This shift in expectations helps soften the effects of not experiencing an orgasm on relationships, but also contributes to the orgasm gap over time.
New Themed Issue calls for urgent shift away from “Leaky Pipeline” metaphor as studies reveal systemic exclusion of women in Archaeology
The 'leaky pipeline' metaphor oversimplifies the systemic barriers faced by women and marginalized scholars in archaeology. New research highlights multiple forms of inequity that diminish productivity, limit collaborations, and reduce future generations of archaeologists.
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.
Women use professional and social networks to push past the glass ceiling
A study of 19,000 corporate employees found that women rely on complex social networks to reach director-level positions, while men's success is more determined by current employment. Women who advance to high-level positions are also more likely to be connected to other female leaders, acting as bridges to bring in more women.
First degree female relatives’ suicidal intentions may influence women’s suicide risk
A large population study found that female relatives' suicidal intentions may influence women's suicide risk, with shared familial environment and social factors having a key role. The study also found that genetic factors only partly explain the observed sex difference in suicidal behaviors.
New book examines how COVID-19 crisis entrenched inequality for women around the world
The book, 'Feminism and COVID-19: How Women Fare in the Face of a Global Crisis', examines the global and local impacts of the pandemic on women. Key findings include the disproportionate effects of lost income, unpaid care work, and violence on women.
Swipe right, but safer
A new interactive tool, Safety Map, has been launched to address safety concerns on dating apps, with over 48 in-depth interviews conducted across Canada. The map curates safety information from 30 different dating apps, providing users with practical and accessible knowledge.
How travel and dating apps are changing relationship rules for queer men
Research reveals queer men in relationships are shifting from secretive to open approaches to sex and intimacy while traveling. Participants described 'monogamish' and 'open' relationship arrangements, with clear boundaries and communication crucial for avoiding problems.
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.
Global burden of violence against transgender and gender-diverse adults
A systematic review and meta-analysis found a high prevalence of interpersonal violence globally among transgender and gender-diverse adults. The findings underscore the urgent need for evidence-based violence prevention and response strategies across settings to address this issue.
Has progress stalled on gender equality at work?
The study emphasizes the importance of reorganizing work to support prevention rather than perpetual recovery, particularly in the face of climate change and technological disruption. It also highlights the need for gender equity in technology design and governance to prevent job displacement and undervaluation of women's work.
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...
Gender stereotypes reflect the division of labor between women and men across nations
A cross-temporal, multinational study found that people's beliefs about women and men reflect the social roles they occupy in homes and workplaces. Stereotypes of men as assertive and ambitious and women as kinder and more caring persist despite growing female workforce participation.
"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.
Tourism is quietly rewriting women’s lives in countries under strict religious rule, according to a new study
A new study from the University of Surrey found that women in Iran's tourism sector are navigating state control, religious authority, and patriarchal norms to earn, lead, and be seen. They use digital platforms, peer networks, mentoring, and training to build visibility, income, and independence.
The Intimate Animal, a new book from Kinsey Institute Executive Director Dr. Justin Garcia
Dr. Garcia's book delves into the surprising science behind human connection, exploring how technology, social norms and loneliness impact our ability to form meaningful relationships. With warmth and clarity, he reveals the science behind why we crave connection and how intimacy anchors us in the world.
Applications open for funding to conduct research in the Kinsey Institute archives
The Kinsey Institute invites researchers to apply for competitive awards providing in-person access to its extensive library and special collections on topics including sex, relationships, gender, and human behavior. Applications are due February 13, 2026.
Shape of your behind may signal diabetes
Researchers used MRI 3D mapping to analyze changes in gluteus maximus shape over time and its association with type 2 diabetes. The study found that men showed muscle shrinkage, while women showed enlarged muscle, highlighting sex-specific differences in response to insulin tolerance.
Incarcerated people in US prison express important perceptions of staff
A new study in a US prison suggests that incarcerated individuals prioritize accessibility, support, and humane treatment from staff. The study's findings highlight the potential implications of negative emotions such as frustration and feeling uncared for on relationships between staff and inmates.
Majority of 117 surveyed Georgia women would support abortion at 14 weeks, beyond current legal limit
A new study published in PLOS One found that 76% of surveyed Georgia women supported abortion access at six weeks and 60% at 14 weeks. The study suggests that most women in the sample generally support abortion access, with more consensus emerging around 24 weeks gestation.
Loneliness in young adults - especially educated females - often coexists alongside friendship and social connectedness, and might instead be linked with experiencing major life changes, per large US study
A recent US study reveals that loneliness among young adults, particularly educated females, is often accompanied by social connectedness. The research suggests that this ambivalence towards sociality may be related to significant life transitions.
The law turns a “blind eye” to the severe financial consequences of being in an abusive relationship, study warns
A new study by the University of Exeter warns that the current laws turn a 'blind eye' to the long-lasting financial consequences of domestic abuse. The research suggests that the law should be reformed to take into account the financial impacts of abuse when dividing assets, enabling enhanced awards for victim-survivors.
New editorial urges clinicians to address sex-based disparities in sepsis treatment
The editorial highlights how biological sex and gender inequities contribute to suboptimal sepsis treatment, potentially compromising outcomes for women. Hormonal fluctuations, body composition, and renal clearance all influence drug processing, yet these variables are rarely considered in dosing algorithms.
Strength of gender biases in AI images varies across languages
A study found that AI image generators reproduce and amplify gender biases in different languages, with varying degrees of impact. The results showed that direct prompts using the generic masculine produced the strongest biases, while explicitly feminine prompts showed almost exclusively women.
Project unearths voices from one of the world’s first HIV/AIDS service organizations
A team of researchers and students interviewed 120 former GMHC volunteers, gaining insight into the organization's work at the height of the AIDS crisis in the 1980s. The project broke rules of traditional oral history by conducting group interviews, which worked surprisingly well due to the intergenerational connection.
New report shows action to improve gender equity linked to career gains and better business performance
A new report reveals that companies taking action for gender equality see lower staff turnover, more women in leadership, and better shareholder value. The study also highlights the benefits of gender-balanced executive teams delivering higher company value, with a potential added value of $93 million on average.
Clinical Guidelines as a lever for more equitable healthcare
A study analyzing 325 European clinical guidelines found significant gaps in addressing gender-specific issues, with only 4.7% of recommendations focusing on sex-related aspects. The research team proposes methodological approaches to improve guideline development, including the use of digital tools and stakeholder involvement.
Gender, language and income biases limit contributions to scientific, English-language journals
A study published in PLOS Biology found that women from lower-income countries with non-English first languages publish 70% fewer papers than men, while non-native English speakers at early career stages outperform native English speakers. The authors call for an effort to consider these factors when assessing scientists' performance.
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.
CUNY SPH expands curriculum with concentration in sexual and reproductive justice and health
The CUNY Graduate School of Public Health and Health Policy has launched a new master of public health concentration in sexual and reproductive justice and health. The program prepares students to address social, political, and economic forces shaping sexual and reproductive health outcomes through research, policy, law, leadership, an...
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.
Sibling-specific aggression in women and girls
Research reveals that women and girls exhibit higher levels of direct aggression towards their siblings compared to boys and men. In contrast, women and girls tend to engage in reputational aggression with non-siblings, similar to men and boys.
Nature study: Estrogen protects the kidneys – research from Dresden and Heidelberg proves the relevance of gender-specific medicine for understanding disease and therapy
Research from Dresden and Heidelberg demonstrates that estrogen protects the kidneys against ferroptosis, a major cause of acute kidney damage. Estradiol increases resistance to ferroptosis by intercepting harmful radicals and activating a genetic program to prevent damage.
Parents may have been more likely to cheat than non-parents during the COVID-19 pandemic
Parents and men in particular may be susceptible to infidelity-related risk factors during high-stress life events. A new study reveals that parents reported a higher desire for and engagement in infidelity during the COVID-19 pandemic, with similar patterns observed across genders.
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.
Adolescent girls who have weight concerns despite not being obese are more likely to also experience depression and suicidality, per Korean survey of more than 50,000 middle and high school students
A Korean survey of over 50,000 middle and high school students found that adolescent girls with weight concerns are at higher risk for depression and suicidality. The study highlights the importance of addressing body image issues in young females to prevent mental health problems.
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.
Saving women first? What the Gaza hostage crisis tells us about gender and public opinion
A study found that public support for releasing women first is widespread, but linked to beliefs about gender, with benevolent sexism being a key predictor. Attitudes also followed a pattern tied to ideals of motherhood, suggesting that these cultural narratives may weigh more heavily than gender alone in shaping public judgment.
Self-disclosure in the era of video communication and embodied virtual reality
A team of researchers from Waseda University investigated the effects of new communication media, including video-conferencing and embodied virtual reality, on self-disclosure. They found that embodied VR, especially with unrealistic avatars, resulted in higher self-disclosure of personal feelings compared to face-to-face conversations.
Gender disparities in Italian medical academia have persisted or worsened since 2014, with a continued "leaky pipeline" of women not progressing to senior roles
A study examining Italian medical academia over the last decade reveals a persistent 'leaky pipeline' of women not advancing to senior roles. The research highlights significant gender disparities in academia, affecting women's career prospects and opportunities.
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.
Age and gender influence food preferences and dietary patterns
The study found that younger men preferred a fish-centered diet, while older women leaned toward plant-based foods. Dietary diversity increased with age for both men and women, suggesting a shift in dietary preferences over time.
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.
Astronomy and geophysics still 'overwhelmingly white' and failing to attract more women, survey reveals
Women and ethnic minority groups continue to be underrepresented in astronomy and geophysics, with 97% of permanent staff being white. Despite efforts to increase representation, the fields still struggle with low numbers of female professors and senior lecturers, but show some improvement among postdoctoral researchers.
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.
Youth volunteering encourages young men to vote for the first time, research shows
Research by the University of Exeter finds that youth volunteering encourages young men from disengaged homes to vote for the first time. However, this effect is not observed for young women from similar backgrounds. Volunteering effectively reduces socio-economic inequalities in voter turnout among young people.
Study reveals impact of crime exposure on Arab men in Israel: power, isolation, and a call for change
A study explores how Arab men interpret and internalize their experiences of living in violent environments. Key findings reveal four central themes: the association of crime with power, emotional struggles, concerns for the future, and a desire for transformation. The research highlights an urgent need for culturally tailored therapeu...
Corporate boards with more women in positions of power lead to safer workplaces
New research from the University of Notre Dame finds that corporate boards with more women have fewer accidents and injuries on the job. Female directors can prioritize workplace safety and enhance regulatory compliance, leading to improved rule-following and protocols for safer work environments.
Who gets targeted in online games? Study maps harassment risk by gender, age, and identity
A study by Universidad Miguel Hernandez de Elche found that sexual victimization occurs in approximately 20% of Spanish gamers, while hate-motivated incidents affect 20-30% of players. The research highlights the need for game developers to implement preventive measures and user protection tools.
As many as 1 in 5 women with a history of pregnancy or testing for pregnancy report using crisis pregnancy centers across 4 US states
A study found that between 11.6% and 20.2% of women with a history of pregnancy or testing for pregnancy visited crisis pregnancy centers across four US states, including Arizona and New Jersey. The attendance rates were not correlated with age, race, or socioeconomic status.