THE GENDER-GAP IN ENVIRONMENTAL ATTITUDES - THE CASE OF PERCEIVED VULNERABILITY TO RISK

Objective. Surveys demonstrate somewhat consistent gender differences in environmental concern, but there is no consensus on reasons for the se differences. This research makes the case that differences in perce ived vulnerability to risk explain the gender gap found in environment al surveys and other, quite distinct, areas of potential risk as well. Methods. Two national surveys, administered simultaneously and each i nvolving very different environmental risks (hazardous waste sites and global warming), are analyzed in terms of gender differences. Results . In both surveys, in every question that involves reactions to a spec ific risk, women are more concerned than men. Standard deviations also are consistently smaller for women. When health-risk perceptions ente r equations accounting for environmental concerns, however, the gender gap disappears. Conclusions. Questionnaire items that imply specific risks tend to produce significant gender differences. These types of s urvey results can be construed as communication events in which respon dents who feel vulnerable answer in ways that urge caution on policyma kers.