Evaluation

Cards (4)

  • Quantitative approach
    One strength of Bem's work is that androgyny is measured quantitatively:
    • Useful when quantifying a dependent variable
    • However, Spence argues that qualitative methods are more useful
    • This suggests that both quantitative and qualitative methods may be useful for studying androgyny
  • Valid and reliable
    A strength of the BSRI is that when it was developed it appeared to be valid and reliable:
    • Piloted by 1000 students, results corresponded with their own description of gender identity, demonstrating validity
    • Test-retest reliability demonstrated by a further test
    • Therefore, the BSRI was believed to be valid and reliable
  • Counterpoint to valid and reliable
    • The BSRI was developed over 40 years ago and behaviours have changed since
    • The scale was devised by only people from the US
    • Therefore, the BSRI lacks temporal validity and generalisability, and may not be suitable for today
  • Self-awareness
    A limitation of the BSRI is that people may not have an insight into their degree of femininity, masculinity or androgyny:
    • Likert scales require participants to have prior knowledge and understanding
    • The scoring system is subjective
    • Therefore, the BSRI may not be an objective, scientific way of assessing androgyny