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Gender Differences in Child and Adolescent Social Withdrawal: A Commentary
Kenneth H Rubin1, Matthew G Barstead1
1Department of Human Development & Quantitative Methodology, University of Maryland, 3304 Benjamin Building, College Park, MD 20742, USA.
Sex Roles
|February 25, 2015
Summary
Childhood shyness poses developmental risks, with research suggesting boys face greater risks than girls. This study critically examines these claims, finding mixed support for negative social responses and stronger links to internalizing problems in shy boys.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Child Psychology
- Gender Studies
Background:
- Shyness and related constructs are significant developmental factors.
- Previous research suggests gender differences in the risks associated with shyness.
- Doey et al. (2013) proposed greater developmental risks for boys due to shyness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically examine Doey et al.'s conclusions on gender differences in childhood shyness.
- To review empirical and theoretical work on gender and shyness.
- To present new data testing specific hypotheses regarding gender differences in shyness outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Critical review of existing literature on shyness, gender, and developmental risks.
- Analysis of data from 'The Friendship Project' to test hypotheses.
- Empirical examination of social responses and internalizing problems in relation to shyness and gender.
Main Results:
- Mixed empirical support was found for the claim that shy boys receive more negative responses than shy girls.
- The association between anxious withdrawal and internalizing problems was not consistently stronger for boys compared to girls.
- Data analysis provided nuanced insights into gender differences in childhood shyness.
Conclusions:
- The proposed gender differences in developmental risks associated with shyness require further investigation.
- Future research should explore the complex relationship between gender, shyness, and associated outcomes.
- Clarifying the correlates and consequences of childhood shyness across genders is essential.
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