The Relationship Between Knowledge, Attitude, and Awareness of Metaverse and Gender Perception and Misogyny

Gender perception and misogyny are important factors affecting women's health. The study aims to determine individuals' attitudes, knowledge, and awareness regarding the concept of metaverse and examine their relationship with gender perception and misogyny.

The study is an analytical cross-sectional design. The research was conducted online with 1018 individuals between October and December 2024. A "Personal Information Form," the "Metaverse Scale," the "Perception of Gender Scale," and the "Hostility Toward Women Scale" were used to collect the data.

Those with high knowledge, attitudes, and awareness of the metaverse had a more positive perception of gender roles (β = 0.090; p = 0.003). Those who used (β = 7.852; p = 0.012) and used the metaverse for gaming/entertainment purposes, those who did not use it had a more positive perception of gender roles (β = 8.652; p = 0.012). Those with a positive perception of gender had lower levels of misogyny (β = -0.375; p < 0.001). Those who spent more time on social media daily had greater misogyny (β = 0.270; p = 0.030).

Those who use the metaverse and those who used the metaverse for gaming/entertainment purposes have more negative gender perceptions than those who do not use the metaverse. Those who spent more time on social media daily had greater misogyny. Those with a positive perception of gender had lower levels of misogyny. These findings highlight the need for correct and safe internet use, particularly for women engaging in virtual spaces.