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New Sexism in Couple Therapy: A Discursive Analysis
Olga Sutherland1, Andrea LaMarre1, Carla Rice1
1Department of Family Relations and Applied Nutrition, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada.
Family Process
|May 5, 2017
Summary
Even with egalitarian goals, couples often maintain traditional gender roles due to subtle, evolving sexist ideologies. This study analyzes "new sexism" in couple therapy, revealing persistent gender inequality.
Area of Science:
- Sociology
- Linguistics
- Psychology
Background:
- Gender inequality persists in postindustrial societies despite societal changes.
- Couples aspire to egalitarianism but often maintain traditional gender roles.
- Sexist ideology evolves, incorporating feminist language to legitimize male power.
Purpose of the Study:
- To advance discursive approaches for studying contemporary sexism.
- To analyze "new sexist" discourse within couple therapy settings.
- To identify how gendered assumptions perpetuate inequality.
Main Methods:
- Discursive analysis of language used in couple therapy.
- Examination of "new sexism" and its manifestation in intimate relationships.
- Qualitative analysis of communication patterns.
Main Results:
- Couples endorsing egalitarian norms still rely on gender binaries.
- Discursive analysis revealed entrenched patterns of gender inequality.
- Evidence suggests "new sexism" subtly upholds traditional hierarchies.
Conclusions:
- Discursive approaches are crucial for recognizing and addressing "new sexism".
- Couple therapy must address subtle gendered assumptions to foster true egalitarianism.
- Further research is needed to understand and combat evolving forms of sexism.
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