Development of sex differences in listening

UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Laura Ann Reis (Creator)
Institution
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/
Advisor
Jacquelyn Gaebelein

Abstract: Various research with adults has shown that males are rated as more intelligent, more interesting, and more highly respected than females by both men and women. There is also evidence to indicate a developmental trend to these evaluations. In the present study it was hypothesized that younger boys and girls (age 5) would attain more information from a female model than from a male model, while older boys and girls (age 11) would attain more information from a male model. Mixed results were expected for 8 year olds such that boys would learn more from a male model and girls would learn more from n female model. Seventy-two children, 12 males and 12 females from grades K, 3, and 6, were shown a video-taped talk on puppet-making by either a male or female speaker, followed by a probed recall. Results indicate a developmental trend, but not as predicted. Sixth graders recalled more than Kindergarten subjects, while rating speaker effectiveness significantly lower than third grade and kindergarten subjects. Sixth graders also rated their interest in the topic after the presentation significantly lower than kindergarten subjects after hearing the female speaker. There were more differences in interest level after hearing the male speaker. Third grade males rated the information content lower than both kindergarten males and third grade females.

Additional Information

Publication
Thesis
Language: English
Date: 1976
Subjects
Listening
Sex differences (Psychology) in children

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