Gender differences in the perceived threats of potential military conflicts between Taiwan and China among Taiwanese individuals

Tensions between Taiwan and China have intensified, yet little is known about whether Taiwanese adults perceive this threat differently by gender. Using a representative telephone survey of 2,000 adults interviewed in November 2023, we examined gender differences in perceived war likelihood, worry, expected life impact, coping confidence, confidence in politicians, information sources, and awareness of increased Chinese military activities. Women reported greater worry, lower confidence in handling war-related effects, greater reliance on traditional media rather than social media, and lower awareness of Chinese military activities. These findings support gender-sensitive communication and preparedness strategies in Taiwan.