In the eye of the beholder

Perceptions of female and male outdoor leaders

Bibliographic Data

ID11436693
AuthorsDeborah Jordan (0000-0002-7651-9912, University of Northern Iowa, corresponding author), Deb Jordan
Year1991
Volume10
Issue3
Pages235-245
Publication date1991-09-01
Open AccessNo
TypeARTICLE
VenueLeisure Studies (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0261-4367 • E-ISSN: 1466-4496
PublisherInforma UK Limited (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1080/02614369100390211
OpenAlexW2042554885
LanguageEN
Citations received3
References cited13

The theory of expectation states suggests that each individual has certain performance and behavioural expectations of themselves and others in society. Those expectations are based on various roles people play within society. People in leadership roles are ascribed high status; others look up to them and grant them power and dominance. The literature also reveals that, based on gender, males are ascribed higher status than females. This can result in gender bias favouring males. This paper reports an examination of gender bias, based on participant expectations, in outdoor leadership. Participants read four descriptions of hypothetical outdoor leaders and responded to questions concerning the competence of depicted leaders. All subjects expressed a preference for a male outdoor leader thereby exhibiting some level of gender bias. While male respondents exhibited stereotypical responses to several dependent items, female respondents based the majority of their ratings on level of competence rather than sex of leader. Implications of the existence of gender bias in expectations of outdoor leaders, programme administrators and participants are discussed

Competence (human resources · Developmental psychology · Dominance (genetics · Gender bias · Perception · Preference · Adventure Sports and Sensation Seeking · Outdoor and Experiential Education · Psychology · Recreation, Leisure, Wilderness Management · Social Psychology

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