The Interpersonal Power of Feminism: Is Feminism Good for Romantic Relationships?

Laurie A. Rudman; Julie E. Phelan

doi:10.1007/s11199-007-9319-9

Sex Roles

December 2007, Volume 57, Issue 11, pp 787–799

The Interpersonal Power of Feminism: Is Feminism Good for Romantic Relationships?

Authors
Authors and affiliations

Laurie A. RudmanEmail author
Julie E. Phelan

Original Article

First Online:: 06 October 2007

Received:: 06 January 2007
Accepted:: 27 August 2007

DOI: 10.1007/s11199-007-9319-9

Cite this article as:: Rudman, L.A. & Phelan, J.E. Sex Roles (2007) 57: 787. doi:10.1007/s11199-007-9319-9

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Abstract

Past research suggests that women and men alike perceive feminism and romance to be in conflict (Rudman and Fairchild, Psychol Women Q, 31:125–136, 2007). A survey of US undergraduates (N = 242) and an online survey of older US adults (N = 289) examined the accuracy of this perception. Using self-reported feminism and perceived partners’ feminism as predictors of relationship health, results revealed that having a feminist partner was linked to healthier relationships for women. Additionally, men with feminist partners reported greater relationship stability and sexual satisfaction in the online survey. Finally, there was no support for negative feminist stereotypes (i.e., that feminists are single, lesbians, or unattractive). In concert, the findings reveal that beliefs regarding the incompatibility of feminism and romance are inaccurate.

Keywords

FeminismClose relationshipsFeminist stereotypesIntergroup relationsGender attitudes

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Authors and Affiliations

Laurie A. Rudman
- 1
Email author
Julie E. Phelan
- 1

1.Department of PsychologyRutgers UniversityPiscatawayUSA

The Interpersonal Power of Feminism: Is Feminism Good for Romantic Relationships?

Abstract

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