Benevolent sexism

Definition

Benevolent sexism refers to the attitudes and beliefs that seem positive or protective but ultimately reinforce traditional gender roles and stereotypes. This concept often manifests in the context of political campaigns, where female candidates may be portrayed as needing special care or support, thus undermining their competence and authority. While such portrayals may appear to honor women, they actually perpetuate the notion that women are less capable than men in leadership roles.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Benevolent sexism can lead to the perception that women are unfit for leadership roles, as it often suggests that they require assistance and protection.
2. Political campaigns may utilize benevolent sexism by emphasizing a female candidate's nurturing qualities instead of her qualifications and achievements.
3. Research shows that benevolent sexism can create barriers for women in politics by undermining their credibility and authority in the eyes of voters.
4. Benevolent sexism often coexists with hostile sexism, making it difficult to combat both forms of discrimination simultaneously.
5. The portrayal of women in media as needing protection or support can reinforce stereotypes and discourage women from pursuing political ambitions.

Review Questions

• How does benevolent sexism impact the way female candidates are perceived during political campaigns?
  • Benevolent sexism impacts the perception of female candidates by framing them as needing protection or special treatment, which undermines their qualifications and leadership abilities. This portrayal can lead voters to see female candidates through a lens of traditional gender roles, diminishing their authority and competence. Consequently, while some may view these portrayals as respectful, they ultimately hinder women's political advancement.
• Discuss the relationship between benevolent sexism and traditional gender roles in political contexts.
  • The relationship between benevolent sexism and traditional gender roles is deeply intertwined, as benevolent sexism reinforces the idea that women should occupy nurturing or supportive roles rather than leadership positions. This perspective promotes the notion that women are inherently less capable than men in political arenas, leading to a cycle where women's contributions are minimized. By perpetuating traditional gender norms, benevolent sexism not only affects individual candidates but also shapes societal expectations around women's participation in politics.
• Evaluate the effects of benevolent sexism on women's political representation and participation in the long term.
  • The long-term effects of benevolent sexism on women's political representation and participation can be quite detrimental. It creates an environment where women are less likely to be seen as viable candidates for leadership roles, reinforcing barriers to entry into politics. As a result, fewer women may feel encouraged to run for office or pursue political careers, leading to underrepresentation in decision-making processes. This systemic issue hinders progress toward gender equality in politics and perpetuates the cycle of discrimination against women.

Related terms

hostile sexism: Hostile sexism is a form of sexism that overtly expresses negative attitudes toward women, portraying them as manipulative or inferior to men.

gender roles: Gender roles are societal norms that dictate how individuals should behave based on their gender, often leading to stereotypical expectations about men and women.

double bind: The double bind refers to a situation where women in leadership face conflicting expectations; they are criticized for being too aggressive or too passive, regardless of their behavior.