Limits and stereotypes of Mexican culture towards women in positions of power
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.29105/gmjmx23.45-564Keywords:
female leadership, stereotypes, perceptions, ideology, LAPOPAbstract
The federal executive power in Mexico has historically been led by men. The nomination of women for these positions represents a paradigm shift with international implications. It is uncommon for two women to compete for a country's presidency with significant chances of winning. The political culture of Mexicans, as well as that of most of the world, has traditionally assumed and normalized male leadership. This study aims to analyze the predispositions of Mexican citizens—both men and women—toward female leadership, considering gender, ideological orientations, and whether they belong to rural or urban areas. The analysis is based on data from the latest wave of The AmericasBarometer, Latin American Public Opinion Project (2023), Mexico section, to examine the attitudes and judgments that citizens express regarding the suitability of women in positions of power. The results indicate that positive perceptions of female leadership are influenced by ideology, with higher acceptance among left-leaning sectors, while traditional gender roles continue to limit women's access to power.
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