Occupation and Impressions: Stereotypes of Males and Females in Three Professions

Stereotypes of persons in three professions and of “average persons” were studied. The results suggested an earlier finding is limited in generality, if not an artifact. The pattern of males being perceived as more autonomous and effective but less acceptable than females occurred only when target occupation was unspecified and data of both subject-sexes were combined. Females were generally rated equal or superior to males, although male subjects gave average females low ratings. Male subjects also rated male nurses less acceptable than did female subjects. Female cross-sex-role occupational behavior was not disapproved. Computer professionals generally scored high on auto nomy and effectiveness, but not on acceptability. Liberal education and role modeling were suggested as means of countering negative stereotypes.