Masculine and Feminine Stereotypes and Adjustment: A Reanalysis

Abstract

Deutsch and Gilbert (1976) used Bern's balance model in a study of self-perceptions of stereotypic masculine and feminine attributes, Rogerian-type conflict, and personal adjustment. Because important conceptual and computational changes have occurred in the measures of psychological masculinity and femininity, a reanalysis of these data was undertaken using Spence and Helmreich's absolute model. The reanalyses demonstrate the advantage of distinguishing between Androgynous and Undifferentiated individuals rather than grouping them together into a single “balanced” category. The new results also differ from those reported earlier in making apparent the influences of both Rogerian-type conflict and one's Real Self-description of masculinity and femininity on personal adjustment.