Gender Bias

Question 1

Define Alpha Bias

Answer 1

A tendency to exaggerate the differences between men and women. Normally devalues women against men.

Question 2

Define Beta Bias

Answer 2

A tendency to ignore or minimise differences between men and women. Normally ignores women and applies results of men to everyone.

Question 3

Define Gender Bias

Answer 3

The differential treatment or representation of men and women based upon stereotypes rather than real differences.

Question 4

Define Universality

Answer 4

The aim to develop theories that apply to all people.

Question 5

What has affected psychologists beliefs?

Answer 5

They may have been influenced by the social and historical context in which they live.

Question 6

Name on consequence of Beta Bias

Answer 6

Androcentrism.

Question 7

What is androcentrism in relation to gender bias?

Answer 7

If the idea of ‘normal’ behaviour comes from research that involves all men they any behaviour that deviates from this is judged as ‘abnormal’ which leads to female behaviour being misunderstood.

Question 8

Name one limitation of gender bias in psychological research.

Answer 8

Gender-biased research may create misleading assumptions about female behaviour and validate discrimination.