Gender Bias Flashcards
Define gender bias.
When a research or theory offers a view that doesn’t justifiably represent the experience of both men and women.
Define alpha bias.
When the theory exaggerates the difference between men and women.
What is beta bias?
Theories that ignore or minimise differences between sexes.
Give one example of beta bias.
Milgram - only studied men but generalised conclusions to all.
Give an example of alpha bias.
Biological approach - explains depression only in terms of hormones.
Twice as many women diagnosed as men and suggested to do with PMS.
Ignores other factors and upholds stereotypes.
Define universality.
Any characteristic of human beings that is capable of being applied to all.
What does androcentrism mean?
When ‘normal’ behaviour is judged according to a male standard (male centred).
Explain how the implications of bias are a weakness of gender bias.
May create misleading assumptions about female behaviour and/or validate discriminatory practices.
Therefore not only is gender bias a methodological problem but also may have damaging consequences - social sensitivity.
Explain how the sexism within research process is another weakness of gender bias.
Lack of women are appointed to senior research levels meaning female concerns may not be reflected in research questions.
Therefore psychology may be guilty of supporting a form of institutional sexism.
