Final answer:
Research on ambivalent sexism has shown that discrimination can result from both negative and seemingly positive but patronizing attitudes towards women, contributing to gender inequality.
Step-by-step explanation:
Research on ambivalent sexism has shown that:
Some people are not sure whether they are sexist.
Having an ambivalent attitude toward women (both positive and negative) leads to the strongest discrimination.
Discrimination can result from objectively positive, but patronizing attitudes towards women.
These findings indicate that sexism is not limited to hostile attitudes but can also stem from conflicting beliefs and attitudes toward women. It highlights the importance of addressing both overt and subtle forms of discrimination to promote equality.
Research on ambivalent sexism indicates that discrimination can result from not only openly negative or hostile attitudes towards women (hostile sexism) but also from seemingly positive yet patronizing attitudes (benevolent sexism).
This form of sexism can be subversive as it often dresses prejudice in the guise of admiration or protectiveness, which can undermine women’s autonomy and contribute to gender inequality. For instance, when women exhibit competence in traditionally male-dominated roles, they might experience pushback for not adhering to traditional gender roles, imposed both by others' expectations and institutionalized norms.