Publication Date

2003

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between threatening masculinity identity in men and subsequent antigay attitudes and behaviors. In a group testing session, masculinity levels were assessed in college men using the Male Role Norm Scale. Male participants were called back for the experimental manipulation, in which they were assigned to one of two conditions. In the masculine threat condition, participants took a test supposedly measuring masculine knowledge and received false feedback of poor performance. In the no threat condition, participants took a test supposedly measuring general knowledge without receiving any feedback. Following the experimental manipulation, a male confederate that participants were led to believe was gay administered a professionalism evaluation, which was used as a behavioral measure. Participants then completed measures on attitudes toward gays. It was predicted that participants with high masculinity in the masculine threat condition would express the most antigay attitude and behavior. This hypothesis was not supported by significant results. Possible interpretations of these findings are discussed.

Disciplines

Psychology

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