Perceptions of Gender Differences in the Jordanian Family: A Field Study of a Sample of Yarmouk University Students
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.35516/Hum.2026.10473Keywords:
Gender Perceptions, Gender Differences, Conservative Gender Roles, Liberal Gender Roles.Abstract
Objectives: This study explores university students' perceptions of gender differences in the Jordanian family. It also assesses the gender gap between males and females in terms of personal attributes, gender roles, education, employment, economic participation, and political engagement.
Methods: A social survey approach was employed, using a questionnaire as the primary research tool. A convenience sample of 593 students from Yarmouk University participated in the study.
Results: The findings indicate that males tend to hold more conservative gender perceptions, whereas females lean toward more liberal views. The statistical analysis reveals a high level of gender equality in personal and educational attributes, with females perceived as possessing wisdom, rationality, strength, courage, and trustworthiness, and excelling in fields such as science and law. However, a moderate level of gender equality was observed in perceptions of roles, employment, economic participation, and political engagement. The results highlight growing recognition of women's roles beyond the household, including their ability to work in law and the judiciary, drive economic growth, manage financial crises, and actively participate in politics and elections. Statistically significant differences were found based on most independent variables, except for parental education levels and parental employment status.
Conclusions: Women tend to support gender equality, whereas men are more inclined toward traditional gender roles. These findings underscore the need to institutionalize gender norms in Jordan, prioritize merit over traditional roles, and establish legal frameworks that enable women's full participation in education, employment, and politics.
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