Title
Sexual Prejudice, Sexism, and Religion
Document Type
Article
Journal/Book Title/Conference
Religion
Volume
40
Publisher
Taylor and Francis
Publication Date
8-1-2021
First Page
45
Last Page
50
Abstract
Multi-national and meta-analytic studies suggest that the pathways between religiousness and sexism/sexual prejudice are partially mediated by sociopersonality factors such as conservatism. In this article, we describe the contributing factors to this relationship, such as authoritarianism and fundamentalism. These factors interact at the dynamic nexus of individual and social development. As such, religiously situated sexism and sexual prejudice are not viewed as inevitable outcomes to religious practice and faith. Individual differences (e.g. conservatism), congregational (e.g. doctrine/policies, limited contact), and cultural factors (e.g. power hierarchies) mutually contribute to this landscape, and individuals ultimately make choices regarding their behavior and views. Further research exploring the mechanisms of religiously situated gender inequality and sexual prejudice is essential given the associated negative outcomes for individuals, relationships, and communities. Our growing grasp of the agentive pathways leading to religiously situated prejudice and discrimination is enriching our understanding of how individual differences and social contexts contribute to sexism and sexual prejudice.
Recommended Citation
Etengoff C, Lefevor TG. Sexual prejudice, sexism, and religion. Curr Opin Psychol. 2021 Aug;40:45-50. doi: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2020.08.024. Epub 2020 Sep 6. PMID: 33007574.