title: Naming patterns reveal cultural values: patronyms, matronyms, and the U.S. culture of honor.
abstract: Four studies examined the hypothesis that honor norms would be associated with a pronounced use of patronyms, but not matronyms, for naming children. Study 1 shows that men who endorse honor values expressed a stronger desire to use patronyms (but not matronyms) for future children, an association that was mediated by patriarchal attitudes. Study 2 presents an indirect method for assessing state patronym and matronym levels. As expected, patronym scores were significantly higher in honor states and were associated with a wide range of variables linked previously to honor-related dynamics. Study 3a shows that following the terrorist attacks of 9/11, patronyms increased in honor states, but not in non-honor states. Likewise, priming men with a fictitious terrorist attack (Study 3b) increased the association between honor ideology and patronym preferences. Together, these studies reveal a subtle social signal that reflects the masculine values of an honor culture.
authors.affiliation: 1University of Oklahoma, Norman, USA.
authors.forename: Ryan P
authors.initials: RP
authors.lastname: Brown
authors.forename: Mauricio
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Carvallo
authors.forename: Mikiko
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Imura
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D003466:Cultural Characteristics; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009275:Names; D012945:Social Values; D014481:United States; D055815:Young Adult
keywords: culture of honor; matronyms; patriarchy; patronyms; terrorism