Gender bias

Question 1

what is the problem with universiality and bias

Answer 1

bias undermines psychology’s claim to universality- that conclusions drawn can be applied to everyone, anywhere, regardless of time or culture

Question 2

what is alpha bias

Answer 2

focuses on differences between men and women

Question 3

give an example of alpha bias

Answer 3

freud’s psychosexual stages of development. Becuse girls dont have castration anxiety and dont identify with same sex parent as much, they have develop a weaker superego.

Question 4

what is beta bias

Answer 4

research that focusses on the similarities and ignores differences. Often misrepresents women

Question 5

give an example of beta bias in other topics

Answer 5

• the fight or flight response. Research has favoured males because women’s behaviour is effected by their hormonal changes.
• attachment research brings the idea that only women can give emotional care to children. But other research has suggested that men can also take on this role.

Question 6

what is androcentrism?

Answer 6

• when behaviour is judged according to the male standard and any different behaviour is understood as abnormal.
• male anger is considered rational wheras female emotions are medicalized.

Question 7

what are strengths of beta bias

Answer 7

• allows women greater opportunities. It draws attention to women’s needs. - However Hare and Mustin highlight that arguing for equalities may draw attention away from women’s special needs like parenting it makes them forget about the hardships pregnancy comes with
• increased awareness leads to good practice of changing this for the better

Question 8

give weaknesses to gender bias

Answer 8

• gender bias remains unchallenged.