Sexism in cecondary education students

Abstract

Sexism produces inequality, favours discrimination and is the seed of macho behaviour and gender-based violence. The aim of this study is to analyse gender stereotypes in the behaviours of young people that permeate sexist attitudes, using the Gender Role Attitude Scale questionnaire. The research involves 288 Spanish students, the average age distribution being M=14.83, SD=1.94. The dispersion analysis shows that men are more sexist than women. Although there is no extreme sexism, there is a significant percentage of women who feel responsible for domestic tasks and childcare, who accept this role naturally, and who believe in their friends should be valued more for their family than professional activity. Men, on the other hand, focus more on the work environment and believe that there are certain types of work appropriate only for them and not for women. It is concluded that the identity of the participants' gender roles is influenced by a sexist and androcentric culture. In order to prevent these behaviors it is necessary to educate in the change of traditional roles from childhood and in early adolescence. It is suggested to use mechanisms of family and school education in gender-equitable values.