Cultural differences - The effect of culture can be a seen in the way gender expectations vary from one culture to another. For example, across cultures there is a general belief that women are more conformist than men. However, this difference varies considerably with culture. Berry et al (2002) report that conformity is highest in tight, sedentary societies(groups that aren’t normandic), with a correlation of +.78 between this sex difference and an eco cultural index(a measure of the kind of environment people live in)
We also include historical changes when considering cultural differences in gender roles. In the UK, women continue to perform more domestic duties than men and to occupy less powerful positions. However, this gender gap has been decreasing, which supports the role of changing cultural influences (Alleye, 2011). One of the classic studies of cultural differences was conducted by Margret Mead (1935) looking at social groups in Papa New Guinea. She provided evidence of cultural role differences. She found the Arapaho men and women to be gentle, responsive and cooperative. The Mundugumor men and women were violent and aggressive, seeking power and position. By contrast the Tchambuli exhibited gender role differences, the women were dominant, impersonal and managerial, whereas the men were more emotionally dependent