ambivalent sexism

[am-biv-uh-luhnt sek-siz-uhm]

noun

1. a theory that sexism is multidimensional, one form hostile sexism reflecting negative views of people, especially women, who challenge traditional gender roles, and the other form benevolent sexism reflecting positive views of those who conform to these roles.

Word History and Origins

Origin of ambivalent sexism¹

First recorded in 1990–95

Example Sentences

The first study helped define sexism using the Ambivalent Sexism Inventory to measure varying levels of hostile and benevolent sexism.

Read more on Salon

They measured their views using the Ambivalent Sexism Inventory, which consists of 22 statements which can be responded to on a scale of agreement.

Read more on The Guardian