Abstract
The purpose of this study was to explore and study the effects of both positive and negative stereotypes on the perceived decision making abilities of those exposed to them. Past research has indicated that prejudice towards women exists more prevalently and more intensely in society than it does for males. Accordingly, we predicted that women would respond more negatively to such stereotypes than men would when presented with them. We then measured this by asking participants to judge their perceived agency in hypothetical situations that required decision making. We tested this with both positive and negative stereotypes, and also with a control. Our findings did produce significant results showing a main effect of participant gender (female) causing them to rate themselves more negatively then males on average. These results are important because they show that women respond negatively to these pervasive and flawed stereotypes attributed to their gender which could negatively affect their ability to make efficient decisions in everyday life.
Recommended Citation
Frederick J. Nitchie IV, Arcadia University
(2016)
"The Effect of Gender Stereotypes on Perceived Decision Making Abilities,"
The Compass: Vol. 1:
Iss.
3, Article 8.
Available at:
https://scholarworks.arcadia.edu/thecompass/vol1/iss3/8