Influence of Life Events, Gender-Segregated Schooling and Feminist Attitude on Feminist Identity Development and Psychological Well-being among Young Women

Description

Brenda Ryan P.¹ and Deviga Subramani² (School of Psychological Sciences, Christ University (Deemed to be University), Bangalore, Karnataka¹ and School of Psychological Sciences, Department of Psychology, Christ University, (Deemed to be University), Bangalore, Karnataka²)

Feminism has been shaped by various social, cultural and educational factors with early socialization playing a crucial role in developing feminist attitudes among young women. This study tries to explore life events, gender-segregated schooling, and others’ feminist attitudes on feminist identity development and psychological well-being among young women. Previous studies highlighted patriarchal family dynamics, gender discrimination, and gender equity in educational settings but their collective impact on feminist identity remains underexplored. So, this study will further help us to explore how societal norms, certain life events and feminist attitudes of others shape feminist identity and impact psychological well-being among young women. A cross-sectional quantitative research design is adopted, and an estimated sample of 250 will be collected through purposive sampling from young women aged 18-25. Standardized measures such as the Schedule of Sexist Events, the Liberal Feminist Attitude and Ideology Scale, the Feminist Identity Development Scale, and Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ) along with some customized questions for gender-segregated schooling, will be utilized. Statistical analysis, such as ANOVA and multiple regression, will be incorporated to identify the strong predictors of feminist attitudes. The findings of this study will contribute to feminist psychology, inclusive educational practices, and gender equality policies, which will further shape feminist identities among young women in this contemporary society.