The Role of Gender Discrimination in Changing Women’s Attitudes and Social Values Across Generations: A Case Study of Women Born in the 1970s and 2000s in Shiraz
Keywords:
Gender discrimination, gender attitudes, social values, generational differences, women, ShirazAbstract
This study aimed to examine the impact of gender discrimination on the transformation of women’s attitudes and social values across two generations of women in Shiraz. This applied quantitative study involved 400 participants (200 from each generation) selected through stratified random sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire developed based on gender schema and socialization theories, with content validity confirmed by experts and reliability verified via Cronbach’s alpha (0.82 for gender attitudes, 0.78 for discrimination). Data analysis employed descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, and multiple regression using SPSS version 26. Results indicated that women born in the 2000s exhibited significantly higher egalitarian gender attitudes than those born in the 1970s (p<0.001). Gender discrimination was negatively associated with egalitarian attitudes (β= -0.45, p<0.001), while higher education (β=0.32, p=0.004) and employment (β=0.28, p=0.010) had significant positive effects. Age and generational belonging predicted more progressive gender perspectives. Gender discrimination remains a critical barrier to egalitarian attitudes, yet greater access to education, employment, and social opportunities fosters progressive gender values among younger women. Policies reducing discrimination and promoting women’s empowerment are essential to advance gender equality and social development.
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