All In The Mind

The 'benevolent' brand of sexism

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August 14, 2021 2:00pm

28m

You’re no doubt familiar with 'hostile sexism' – blatantly negative or restrictive attitudes towards women.

But there's another type of sexism it co-exists with - ‘benevolent sexism’ - which is sometimes harder to detect.

Benevolent sexism can be well-meaning and positive – describing women as natural nurturers or brilliant carers.

It's linked to notions of chivalry and romance - research suggests some women even find benevolent sexism attractive.

But these attitudes can still cause major harm to women in the workplace and the home.