Gender Stereotypes and Political Ambition

This study analyzes the effects of gender stereotypes on the perception of emotion in hypothetical political candidates. By presenting subjects with various combinations of emotional displays by both male and female candidates, we will be able to see if any gender stereotypes are primed or activated by these displays, and more importantly, the differences in perception of these displays based on the candidate’s gender. For example, if we present the subject with a male candidate who appears aggressive and confrontational, will he be viewed the same way as a female candidate with the same characteristics? Will gender stereotypes cause the female candidate to be perceived more negatively than the male? Previous research has supported the idea that gender stereotypes will effect perception of candidates based on their gender, and this study will help to see if specific stereotypes are primed for application by the subject based on emotional displays.