Gender Differences in Creativity and Emotions

Abstract

Gender differences in creativity and gender differences in emotions are both research topics for which existing literature is inconclusive. Although empirical evidence in both areas points to minimal gender differences overall, the results of individual studies are inconsistent and sometimes conflicting. This chapter provides an overview of research examining gender differences in creativity and gender differences in emotions, highlighting how discrepant findings may be due, in part, to distinct characteristics of the studies (e.g., which indicators of creativity or emotions are assessed). Understanding in which contexts gender differences in creativity and emotions are more – or less – likely to be found is essential for identifying how these two lines of research may relate to one another. How the two may be reciprocally linked is outlined by answering the question: What does research showing an emotions-creativity link mean for gender differences in creativity and emotions?