Predicting gender awareness: the relevance of neo-sexism

Predicting gender awareness: the relevance of neo-sexism

Abstract

Gender awareness implies the recognition of discrimination against women. Contemporary studies have shown that nowadays some people deny that gender inequality exists. This affirmation is based on covert sexist beliefs, which can go unnoticed, disappearing into the cultural norms. Those who consider themselves supporters of women's rights may maintain non-traditional gender roles, but also exhibit subtle sexist beliefs. Therefore, neo-sexism is a useful concept in that it permits denial of the existence of discrimination and also upholds the belief that inequality is no longer a problem. Based on feminist identity research, this study shows that the effect of gender roles on gender awareness is mediated by neo-sexism. In women this effect was total, while in men it was partial. In this sense neo-sexism could be considered to be a factor in maintaining gender inequality and therefore an instrument of male dominance that impedes gender awareness.