Gender stereotypes: persistence and challenges

Purpose The aims of this study are to identify and analyse prevalent gender roles the persistence sexist stereotypes among teachers in training Spain, determine reasons for them suggest solutions eradicating prejudices. Design/methodology/approach A role questionnaire was administered 1260 workers from 54 different professions who were enrolled on a postgraduate course qualify as secondary education teachers. instrument contained six variables both quantitative qualitative analysis: professional work, family (looking after children), feelings emotions, household chores, body image free time. Findings Household looking children linked those most indicated by men women. It is concluded that participate little bringing up chores women continue shoulder responsibility. Both concerned about their image, but have self-acceptance satisfaction with bodies stronger sense being judged how they look. Gender persist, despite extensive legislation Spain since 2004. Research limitations/implications has limitations deriving its choice convenience sampling. Although it includes participants Spanish autonomous communities, number each region not very high. Nevertheless, sample representative almost all branches knowledge (54 professions). Another limitation concerns images used research data collection strategy insofar, could be obtained bank specific subject instead had found databases general images. can inferred without any danger bias would encourage participant design own images, reflecting perceptions auto-perceptions stereotypes. fact there no pre-existing studies using type sciences handicap investigation. Despite these methodological limitations, results may serve basis implementing future actions originating area – especially aimed at teaching people equal order eliminate sterotypes. This carried out part Proyecto Diseño y Atención las Oportunidades de Género en la Educación Superior (Project Design Equality Opportunities Higher Education) funded Vicerrectorado Cooperación al Desarrollo (Office University Cooperation Development) Alicante (Spain). Practical implications been able promote significant changes performance traditional or perpetuate imbalances between ideal model woman still “self-sacrificing mother”, responsible childcare. She must combine first job second profession, and, addition, she “desirable physical image”. puts forward various possible reducing and/or attitudes participation social agents particular through education. investigation use when carrying cross-sectional interventions equality students teacher courses, purposes encouraging elimination strengthening capacity critical judgement, positive self-concept self-esteem. Originality/value useful transversal university promoting stereotypes, judgement capacity,