When stereotypes become 'scientific' statements: dealing with gender issues.
The theoretical analysis by Watzlawik (Integrative Psychological & Behavioral Science 2009) demonstrates the scientific fragility of the constructs of masculinity and femininity based on the oversimplification and overlapping between three levels of analysis: group differences, inter-individual differences and intra-individual differences. Watzlawik presents fresh and relevant contributions in terms of methodological issues, especially about the construction of scientific generalizations. Here I focus on issues related to the transformation of stereotypes in statements about gender differences that claim to be 'scientific'--outlining the socio-political agendas of such statements.
Madureira
Ana Flávia do Amaral
AF
Institute of Psychology, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil. afam2001@terra.com.br
D005260:Female; D005783:Gender Identity; D006801:Humans; D007206:Individuality; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008297:Male; D011057:Politics; D011287:Prejudice; D012106:Research; D012940:Social Problems; D013240:Stereotyping