Gender bias

• What is gender bias?

  Gender bias is the differential treatment and/or representation of males and females based on stereotypes.
• How might a psychologist interpret the sexual behavior of Ken and Barbie?

  A psychologist might interpret Ken's behavior through evolutionary psychology, suggesting he is increasing his chances of passing on his genes.
• What is Alpha Bias?


  Alpha Bias is when the differences between men and women are exaggerated, often to devalue females.
• What does universality mean in psychology?

  Universality means that all research findings apply equally to both genders.
• What are the two types of gender bias identified by Hare-Mustin & Marecek (1988)?

  The two types of gender bias are Alpha bias and Beta bias.
• What are the four main ways that gender bias can occur?

  • Alpha Bias: Exaggerating gender differences.
  • Beta Bias: Minimizing gender differences.
  • Generalizing male samples to females.
  • Emphasizing biological differences while underestimating social factors.
• What is Androcentrism?


  Androcentrism is the view that male behavior is the norm and female behavior is seen as a deviation from that norm.
• What did Freud believe about femininity?

  Freud believed femininity was a failed masculinity and that the two sexes could never be equal in position or worth.
• What is Horney's concept of 'Womb Envy'?


  'Womb Envy' is the idea that males are envious of females' ability to have children and compensate for this by achieving in other domains.
• What is Beta Bias?


  Beta Bias is the attempt to downplay or minimize the differences between genders.
• How does Beta Bias relate to the fight or flight response?

  Beta Bias is evident in the fight or flight response research, which was conducted only on male samples but claimed to be universal.
• What is the consequence of Beta Bias in research?

  Beta Bias can lead to Androcentrism, where male behavior is considered the standard.
• What is institutional sexism in research?

  Institutional sexism refers to the predominance of men at senior researcher levels, leading to the marginalization of female concerns.
• How does biased research methods affect gender bias?

  Biased research methods can create artificial differences or mask real ones, leading to inaccurate conclusions about gender behavior.
• What are the implications of gender bias in research?

  Gender bias may create misleading assumptions about female behavior and justify denying women opportunities in the workplace.
• What criticism do feminists have regarding PMS?

  Feminists criticize PMS as a stereotype that trivializes female experience and medicalizes emotions like anger.
• How does sexism within the research process manifest?

  Sexism within the research process manifests through a lack of women in senior positions and the marginalization of female concerns in research questions.
• What is reflexivity in psychological research?

  Reflexivity is the recognition by psychologists of how their own values and assumptions influence their work.
• How did Dambrin and Lambert demonstrate reflexivity in their research?

  They studied the lack of women in executive positions in accountancy firms and acknowledged how their gender-related experiences influenced their findings.
• Why is it important to challenge gender bias in research?

  Challenging gender bias is important to ensure a valid representation of women in studies and society.
• How can gender bias affect males as well as females?

  Gender bias can also work against males, as alpha bias theories may heighten the value of women, leading to biased diagnostic systems for depression.
• What should be included in a 16 marker essay on gender bias?

  • Define key terms and introduce the topic (AO1).
  • Discuss and evaluate the topic (A02/3).
  • Identify strengths and weaknesses.
  • Provide examples of beneficial applications.
  • Discuss negative implications and how to reduce effects.
  • Include discussion points not previously mentioned.
• What is the role of AO1 in a 16 marker essay?

  AO1 involves defining key terms and introducing the topic.
• What should be discussed in AO2/3 of a 16 marker essay?

  AO2/3 should discuss and evaluate the topic, including strengths, weaknesses, and examples of beneficial applications.
• What is the importance of identifying discussion points in a 16 marker essay?

  Identifying discussion points enhances the depth of analysis and demonstrates critical thinking.
• Why is it important to avoid direct replication of textbook content in essays?

  Avoiding direct replication ensures originality and engages the reader, making the essay more interesting.