Proceedings of The 9th International Conference on New Findings in Humanities and Social Sciences
Year: 2023
DOI: https://www.doi.org/10.33422/9th.hsconf.2023.07.120
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Uncovering subtle biases by exploring multidimensional attitudes towards gender in the South Indian context
Christie M. Gressel, Christopher Coley, Srividya Sheshadri, Alphonse Anto, Aparna J, Anakha Anil
ABSTRACT:
Gender-based discrimination, including violent and more subtle forms, is a persistent problem in India as it is globally. The roots of this issue grow deep into myriad sources but are especially visible in certain social and cultural norms. As such, it is a systemic and generational problem that is not easily solved. One potential solution to disrupt these inherited biases is to develop awareness courses targeting youth and young adults. The present pilot study takes up this effort by surveying university students and faculty at a South Indian institute on their attitudes toward gender. The results indicate positive gender attitudes yet suggest subtle, unresolved discriminatory attitudes persist. By utilizing such findings, an improved awareness program can be developed that is aligned with the global goal of gender equality and also grounded in relevant local norms.
keywords: gender, gender attitudes, gender equality, gender roles, cultural norms