The benefits of and barriers to women’s inclusion

Interacting with women makes men more prosocial

Recent research in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia analyzed how interacting with women affects men’s behavior and attitudes, especially in contexts of male dominance. Researchers randomly assigned men to imagine interactions with women or with other men. Men assigned merely to imagine interactions with women subsequently reported greater openness and greater egalitarianism. Further analyses suggested that the greater openness and egalitarianism was caused by “benevolent sexism” stereotypes, which motivate men to aspire to a higher standard around women. This study shows the benefits of mixed-gender interactions and how “benevolent sexist” stereotypes in patriarchal contexts can be a means to achieve more prosocial behavior in men.

The norm of gender segregation remains a major barrier to women’s economic and political representation

Researchers considered how norms of gender segregation impede women’s economic and political inclusion in the MENA region. One study in Tunisia found that mixed-gender groups of officeholders decreased the willingness of Ennahda supporters (the main Islamist party) to contact their female representatives – even among female supporters of Ennahda. Another study in Jordan found that mixed-gender workplaces were a strong deterrent to women accepting jobs, even more than low wages. These studies show how norms and beliefs can complicate efforts to increase women’s economic and political representation.

Do you have a study we should share for a future Facty Friday? Send an email to drg.el@usaid.gov!