Western Feminism—Constructive for Some, Destructive for Others: An Analysis of United States Feminist and Anti-Feminist Identification

• In Event: 3451 - Section on Collective Behavior and Social Movements Refereed Roundtables (1 hour)
  In Refereed Roundtable 60min: 1. Biography, Identity, and Social Bonds

Abstract

Previous research has often examined the factors that influence individuals to identify or not identify with the feminist movement, but research extending into anti-feminist identity is lacking. Given the current political climate and the salience of relevant movements such as #MeToo and the Women's March, the exploration of feminist identity is only becoming increasingly more important, especially considering its broader implications within our political system. The purpose of this paper is to explore various demographic influences on feminist and anti-feminist identification utilizing data from the 2016 American National Election Study (ANES). Results indicate that Whites and individuals with high levels of education are more likely to identify as feminists, while racial minorities, individuals with lower levels of education, and religiously conservative women are more likely to identify as anti-feminists.

Author

• Alexis P. Hilling, Kent State University