Cultural Stereotyping versus Neutrality of Freudian Sexual Symbols: A Brief Survey

Abstract

A survey of 51 male and 45 female Freudian sexual symbols was employed to assess whether symbols would be perceived as culturally stereotyped or culturally neutral according to prevailing American sex roles. 30 men and 30 women served as respondents. Symbols were designated as male, female, or neutral according to the American culture. Male and female designations were collapsed and defined as culturally stereotyped responses; neutral designations were regarded as nonstereotyped and culturally neutral. Chi-squared analyses via Yates's correction combined for men and women indicated that 13 male (25%) and 19 (42%) female sexual symbols were significantly designated as culturally neutral. Findings support that certain sexual symbols are culturally stereotyped whereas others are more culturally neutral. Neutral symbols may be regarded as more universal which Freudian theory suggests. Experimental and therapeutic implications and precautions are noted.