Developmental Consequences of Benevolent Sexism: How Awareness Can Change Women’s Lives

Benevolent forms of sexism become increasingly evident as society evolves, making everyday sexism more challenging to recognize and confront (Feigt et al., 2022; Watson et al., 2018). When unaware, benevolent forms of sexism can adversely affect women’s self-esteem, create feelings of inferiority, and may potentially increase women’s psychological stressors (Becker & Swim, 2011; Becker & Wright, 2011; Moradi & Subich, 2004). According to the ambivalent sexism theory, benevolent forms of sexism, while expressed in a positive tone, can potentially affect women due to the underlying belief that women are inferior to men (Glick & Fiske, 1996). Some women perceive benevolent forms of sexism as beneficial for them because they offer protection and stability (Forbes et al., 2004). Despite this belief that benevolent sexism may be beneficial, benevolent forms of sexism have the potential to foster internalizations among women that may eventually lead to psychological stressors over time (Feigt et al., 2022). Awareness of subtle forms of sexism is important to offset some of the negative consequences that may arise when such behaviors and sexist experiences go unnoticed (Carliner et al., 2017; Han & Lee, 2023). Awareness of benevolent sexism is an influential factor in developing a more equitable society. By addressing these subtle manifestations of sexism, society can potentially transform behaviors and attitudes that have negatively impacted women for a prolonged period of time.