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21 - Comparing young people’s beliefs and perceptions of gender equality across 28 different countries

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  05 October 2014

By
Bryony Hoskins  and
Jan Germen Janmaat
Edited by
Ingrid Schoon  and
Jacquelynne S. Eccles
Bryony Hoskins
Affiliation:
University of Southampton
Jan Germen Janmaat
Affiliation:
Institute of Education, London
Ingrid Schoon
Affiliation:
Institute of Education, University of London
Jacquelynne S. Eccles
Affiliation:
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
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Summary

Abstract

This chapter explores young people’s perceptions of and beliefs in gender equality across 28 countries and the relationship between these two phenomena. The findings show that while the levels of young people’s beliefs in gender equality follow patterns of economic development (GDP) and are associated with actual measures of gender equality (Gender Empowerment Measure), nevertheless, young peoples’ perceptions of gender inequalities are found to be independent of beliefs in gender equality, actual levels of gender equality, and economic development. Sweden is found to be the only country where more than 50% of young people combine beliefs in equality with perceptions of inequality. In our analysis, we also find that the willingness to engage in political action is stronger among those young people who believe in gender equality and at the same time perceive reality not to be in accordance with this ideal. These findings suggest that political action is premised on the combination of not only believing in gender equality but also perceiving gender inequality.

Type
Chapter
Information
Gender Differences in Aspirations and Attainment
A Life Course Perspective
 , pp. 475 - 494
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2014

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