Gender Concepts: Convergence in Cross-Cultural Research and Methodologies

Abstract

Gender concepts are salient aspects of sociocultural experience. Gender concepts have been examined by trained researchers who collect data in their cultures as part of a larger cross-cultural comparative project. Such studies use easily administered procedures with large numbers of participants acting as “cultural reporters.” Using this methodology, the author and her colleague studied gender stereotypes in 30 countries and masculinity-femininity and gender role ideology in 14 countries. Gender concepts have also been studied through naturalistic observations in specific cultures of interest. Face-to-face interviews and observations with small numbers of participants characterize these studies. Ruth and Robert Munroe’s studies of gender concepts with children and adults in Belize, Kenya, Nepal, and Samoa reflect this orientation. This article highlights the convergence of findings and methodologies of these different types of studies. Research exploring socialization experiences and cultural expectations that may be linked to gender differences and concepts are also discussed.