Publication Date
5-2009
Advisor(s) - Committee Chair
Dr. Anthony Paquin (Director),Dr. Steven Wininger,Dr. Reagan Brown
Degree Program
Department of Psychology
Degree Type
Master of Arts
Abstract
This study was designed to examine the relationship between a person’s goal orientation and the gender roles that they adopt. The relationship between gender and goal orientation has been studied for years, but the results have been inconclusive. Some studies find a gender difference and some studies do not. For this reason, this study examined if there was another factor that was influencing goal orientations that was related to gender.
Goal orientations are perceptual-cognitive frameworks for how individuals approach, interpret, and respond to achievement situations. Gender roles are the behaviors, thoughts, and emotions that are considered acceptable and appropriate for each gender based on society and culture.
Four hundred and seventy two participants answered an online questionnaire assessing their goal orientation and gender role identification. The participants answered questions using the Patterns of Adaptive Learning Scale and the Bem’s Sex Role Inventory. Overall, the results showed that higher masculinity leads to a higher motivation to succeed, and higher femininity leads to a higher motivation to avoid failure.
Disciplines
Cognitive Psychology | Personality and Social Contexts | Psychology
Recommended Citation
Hutchins, Amanda Michelle, "The Relationship between Goal Orientation and Gender Roles" (2009). Masters Theses & Specialist Projects. Paper 61.
https://digitalcommons.wku.edu/theses/61