Examinations of Home Economics Textbooks for Sex Bias

Abstract

Four analyses were conducted on a sample of 100 randomly selected, secondary home economics textbooks published between 1964 and 1974. These analyses examined (1) the gender orientation, (2) pronoun usage, (3) role environments portrayed, and (4) role behaviors and expectations en couraged. Data were analyzed to determine if differences emerged between subject matter areas and years of publication. Results indicated that although home economics textbooks generally are ori ented to a gender neutral student clientele, the contents presented sex bias in language usage, in pictures portraying male and female role environments, and in role behaviors and expectations emphasized. Specific recommendations based on findings are set forth.