ambivalent sexism

[ am-biv-uh-luhnt sek-siz-uhm ]

noun

1. a theory that sexism is multidimensional, one form hostile sexism reflecting negative views of people, especially women, who challenge traditional gender roles, and the other form benevolent sexism reflecting positive views of those who conform to these roles.

Word History and Origins

Origin of ambivalent sexism¹

First recorded in 1990–95

Example Sentences

The first study helped define sexism using the Ambivalent Sexism Inventory to measure varying levels of hostile and benevolent sexism.

From Salon

They measured their views using the Ambivalent Sexism Inventory, which consists of 22 statements which can be responded to on a scale of agreement.

From The Guardian

In 1996, Peter Glick and Susan Fiske wrote a paper on the concept of ambivalent sexism, noting that despite common beliefs, there are actually two different kinds of sexist attitudes and behavior.

From Scientific American

In 1996, Peter Glick and Susan Fiske wrote a paper on the concept of ambivalent sexism, noting that despite common beliefs, there are actually two different kinds of sexist attitudes and behavior.

From Scientific American