Modern Women and the Dynamics of Social Psychological Ambivalence

Because gender roles are rapidly changing, a more dynamic conceptualization of role is especially needed. Working toward this end, we build on the contributions of scholars such as Merton and Barber (1963), Rossi (1972), Bardwick and Douvan (1971), Komarovsky (1973a, 1973b), and Room (1976); develop two pivotal concepts, social psychological ambivalence and developmental alienation; and interpret current findings on the changing roles of women. Conflicts contemporary women may face because they are attracted to opposing values also are explored. One challenge for future researchers will be to clarify the situational factors that link ambivalence on the individual (i.e., psychological) level to structural or sociological ambivalence and to collective social action.