A new global survey of 23,000 people reveals a surprising trend: young men are more likely than older generations to hold traditional views about gender roles in marriage and society.
Generational Divide on Gender Roles
The research, conducted by Ipsos and the Global Institute for Women’s Leadership at King’s College London, found that 31% of men born between 1997 and 2012 (Gen Z) agree that a wife should always obey her husband. This contrasts sharply with just 13% of men born between 1946 and 1964 (Baby Boomers) who hold the same belief.
A third (33%) of Gen Z men also believe a husband should have the final word on crucial decisions. Among women, 18% of Gen Z and 6% of Baby Boomers agreed with the statement that a wife should always obey her husband.
Traditional Expectations Persist
The survey highlighted other areas where Gen Z men expressed more traditional views. Almost a quarter (24%) believe women should not appear too independent or self-sufficient, compared to 12% of Baby Boomers. Twenty-one percent of Gen Z men also believe men who participate in childcare are less masculine, while only 8% of Baby Boomers share that view.
Attitudes toward sexual norms also differed, with 21% of Gen Z men believing a “real woman” should never initiate sex, compared to 7% of Baby Boomers.
Regional Variations and Shifting Perceptions
The survey also revealed significant regional differences. Individuals in Indonesia (66%) and Malaysia (60%) were most likely to agree that a wife should obey her husband, while agreement was lower in the US (23%) and Great Britain (13%).
Interestingly, despite these traditional views, 41% of Gen Z men believe women with successful careers are more attractive to men.
Professor Heejung Chung, director of the Global Institute for Women’s Leadership, noted a growing trend toward traditional views, with 52% of people globally now believing women’s rights have gone far enough, compared to 42% in 2019. This shift, she suggests, may be fueled by “grievances” and “fear of men losing social positions.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What age range defines Gen Z in this survey?
Gen Z is defined as individuals born between 1997 and 2012.
What age range defines Baby Boomers in this survey?
Baby Boomers are defined as individuals born between 1946 and 1964.
Did the survey find any areas where views on gender equality were strengthening?
The survey indicated continued support for gender equality in some areas, such as the belief that there should be more women in government.
As these findings suggest, the future of gender roles remains a dynamic and contested space. Will these trends continue, or will evolving social norms lead to a renewed embrace of equality?
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