Hegemonic masculinity, sexism, homophobia, and perceived discrimination in traditionally male-dominated fields of study: A study in Swiss vocational upper-secondary schools

Abstract

Abstract The current research investigated the endorsement of hegemonic masculinity, sexism, and homophobia, and the perceptions of discrimination, among samples of heterosexual male and female, and LGB students who had entered into traditionally male-dominated and female-dominated fields of study. Specifically, students from vocational and educational training in Swiss upper-secondary schools were recruited. Results revealed that adherence to hegemonic masculinity, sexism, and homophobia is higher in male-dominated fields of study (vs. female-dominated). Furthermore, heterosexual female and LGB students enrolled in male-dominated fields of study have been found to experience and anticipate more discrimination than heterosexual male students. Implications of these results are discussed.