Gender schema theory

Cards (6)

  • Supporting evidence
    Martin and Halverson (1983)- found one week later children were better able to recall gender-consistent pictures than gender inconsistent ones.
  • Contradictory evidence
    Theory assumes you should be able to change children’s behaviours by changing their beliefs/stereotypes.
  • Supporting evidence
    Martin and Little (1990)- found that children under age of 4, who showed no sign of gender stability or constancy, demonstrated strong gender stereotyped behaviours and attitudes.
  • Other explanations
    Social learning theory
  • Practical application
    Opportunities to challenge gender stereotypes e.g. advertising ban
  • However, point for practical applications
    Research shows that even when children are exposed to counter-stereotypes, they may not always perceive or remember them accurately (Robins, 2009, Cann & Newbern, 1984)