PSCH 315 UIC Women and Gender Questions

In 1974, Sandra Bem published a historically-important scale: The Bem Sex Role Inventory (BSRI). One reason this was an important contribution to the existing literature was because Bem (1974) did not conceptualize masculinity and femininity as binary. Bem (1974) also considered one’s gender-identification as having a large socialization influence.

For this assignment, first take the BSRI. Use the scoring information provided below and in Bem (1974). Next, answer the following questions:

1. Using your textbook, class materials, and/or the original article, explain what the BSRI is intended to measure. Explain the theoretical principles involved in the design of the measure. Much of your response can be obtained by reading/paraphrasing/explaining the Introduction section (which starts after the Abstract and ends at “Scoring”). (5 points)
2. Go back to chapter 2 of your textbook. Explain experimental studies. (5 points)
3. Use your imagination to explain how an experimental study could make use of the BSRI. Be thorough in your explanation. To earn full points, make sure you indicate how manipulation and random assignment will be used in the experiment. (5 points)
4. Go back to chapter 2 of your textbook. Explain correlational studies. (5 points)
5. Use your imagination to design a correlational study which makes use of the BSRI. Remember to include a summary of why your correlational study cannot be used to determine causal relationships.