A METHODOLOGICAL COMMENTARY ON GENDER SCHEMA RESEARCH

A commentary is offered on studies intended to assess gender schema theories, the self‐schema theory of Markus et al. and the gender schema theory of Be***m. It is argued that it is necessary to distinguish between methodology which demonstrates: (1) priming effects; (2) self‐schemata, which are not necessarily gender related; and (3) gender schemata. Most studies using the third method have found negative results. It is also argued that the use of categorical classifications in self‐ and gender schema research leads to arbitrarily constituted small groups, and a loss of information. Specific recommendations for multivariate alternatives are offered. 1991 The British Psychological Society