Examining gender-specific outcomes of economic inequality: acceptance of traditional male role norms and gender essentialism

Abstract

Economic inequality is a defining characteristic of contemporary societies, making it crucial to understand its consequences for both individuals and society at large. Previous research has highlighted the effects of economic inequality on the perceptions of social groups and their stereotypes, as well as on the promotion of social norms related to traditional masculinity. Building on this evidence, the present research examines how economic inequality is related to gender-biased perceptions of social reality. We conducted two experimental studies, Study 1 in Spain and Study 2 in Italy (N total = 551; women: 56.1%, men: 39.6%, did not identify as either men or women or did not report their gender: 4.4%). We examined whether exposure to economic inequality was associated with adherence to gender essentialism, acceptance of traditional male role norms (Studies 1 and 2), and expectations of masculine honour concerns (Study 2). Higher levels of economic inequality increased both acceptance of traditional male role norms and adherence to gender essentialism but did not affect expectations of masculine honour concerns. Therefore, economic inequality may influence some gender-related processes and perceptions. Our findings provide valuable insights into how economic inequality may play a role in gender relations, given the established links between the study’s variables and issues such as gender inequality and violence against women.