Fact Check: Young Men of Lower Socio-Economic Backgrounds Oppose Gender Equality Policies More Than Young Liberal Women
What We Know
Recent studies indicate a significant gender gap among young voters, particularly in the United States. Young women are increasingly identifying as liberal and supporting gender equality policies, while young men, especially those from lower socio-economic backgrounds, show a notable resistance to these policies. According to a report by Kamarck et al., young women aged 18 to 29 have become significantly more Democratic in their political leanings compared to their male counterparts, who have remained relatively stable in their political views. This trend is reflected in polling data, where the support for President Biden among young women is markedly higher than among young men, indicating a broader ideological divide.
Moreover, a longitudinal analysis by Glocalities highlights that young men have been slower to adopt liberal values compared to young women, with many young men expressing feelings of discrimination and isolation. This sentiment has been linked to a growing backlash against gender equality initiatives, as noted in studies from South Korea, where young men in their twenties and thirties oppose gender equality policies more strongly than older men (Jeong and Lee, 2019).
Analysis
The claim that young men of lower socio-economic backgrounds are more likely to oppose gender equality policies than young liberal women is supported by various studies. For instance, the Glocalities study indicates that young men have become more patriarchal in their orientations compared to women, who are increasingly concerned about issues like sexual harassment and domestic violence. This divergence suggests that socio-economic factors may contribute to young men's opposition to gender equality policies, as they may perceive these initiatives as threats to their status and opportunities.
Furthermore, the economic frustration experienced by young men has been linked to their resistance to gender equality. As economic conditions worsen, young men may feel insecure and thus oppose policies that they believe could further marginalize them. This aligns with findings from South Korea, where young men exhibit stronger opposition to gender equality policies than older generations, indicating a broader trend that transcends cultural boundaries (Burden et al., 2017).
However, it is essential to consider the reliability of the sources. The studies referenced are from reputable academic institutions and research organizations, which lends credibility to their findings. Nonetheless, the context of these studies—primarily focused on specific demographics or regions—may not universally apply to all young men or women across different socio-economic backgrounds.
Conclusion
The claim that young men of lower socio-economic backgrounds are more likely to oppose gender equality policies than young liberal women is Partially True. While there is substantial evidence supporting the notion that young men, particularly from lower socio-economic backgrounds, exhibit resistance to gender equality initiatives, the extent of this opposition can vary significantly based on individual circumstances and broader socio-economic factors. The ideological divide between young men and women is evident, but it is crucial to recognize that not all young men oppose gender equality policies, and many are also moving towards more liberal views.
