Discuss one example of a difference between males and females ...

[cookcarl]

Discuss one example of a difference between males and females that used to be considered hard-wired but is now considered to be the result of social factors.
 
  What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

Summarize the theoretical discussion of differences, or lack of differences, in self-esteem and self-confidence between men and women.
 
  What will be an ideal response?

[Jody Vaughn]

Answer to Question 1

Answer: There are probably several examples the student could draw on, but the one most documented in the textbook is the question of spatial orientation. For some time there has been a consistent, if small, difference noted in the speed with which the two sexes are able to rotate objects mentally. Recent research has suggested that this effect is influenced by the situation. For example, if both sexes are given an opportunity to practice this skill, the differences disappear. Also interesting is that if the object is made of human figures instead of abstract blocks, the differences are eliminated. Even framing the task as an evaluation of mental abilities, the difference is eliminated. Differences on the task then can be seen as conceptual or social, not perceptual.

Answer to Question 2

Answer: The book suggests that this is one of the most interesting differences. There is a slight trend for men to report higher self-esteem, but it varies with age. The largest effect is at about 15-18 years old and the d=.30. There are also situational effects. Women are less likely to state a strong position of self-confidence if it is made public or if it is made in front of someone who is weaker. What is particularly interesting is that under no conditions are there significant differences in actual performance. Recent research suggests that part of these effects are due to men overestimating their chances of success and women underestimating theirs.