Science University Research Symposium (SURS)

Gendered Expectations Within Friendships

Publication Date

12-4-2024

College

Sciences and Mathematics, College of

Department

Psychological Science, Department of

SURS Faculty Advisor

Patrick Morse

Presentation Type

Oral Presentation

Abstract

The present study explores the differing expectations women have for their same-gender friendships compared to their cross-gender friendships, focusing on behaviors related to physical intimacy, emotional intimacy, instrumental aid, and symmetrical reciprocity. Research has shown that women tend to place greater importance on emotional closeness and shared responsibilities in friendships, as highlighted by Guerrero et al. (2022), while men are often more focused on activities and providing instrumental aid, as discussed by Caldwell and Peplau (1982). Building on this literature, we hypothesize that women will have higher expectations for emotional intimacy and symmetrical reciprocity in same-gender friendships, whereas they will view instrumental aid and physical intimacy differently depending on the friend's gender. To test these hypotheses, we designed a study to assess how women perceive these behaviors in different friendship contexts. Using an online survey, 40 participants evaluated the appropriateness of friendship behaviors through 16 vignettes. Each vignette presented a scenario involving either a male or female friend and described behaviors like offering emotional support or providing help with a task. Participants then rated the normativity of these behaviors, allowing for a comparison of responses based on the friend's gender. The anticipated results suggest that women will rate behaviors consistent with traditional gender norms more favorably, highlighting the persistence of gendered expectations in friendships. By recognizing these patterns, individuals may become more aware of their own relationship dynamics and adjust their expectations, potentially leading to healthier and more balanced friendships in day-to-day life.

This document is currently not available here.

Share

COinS