Gender, masculinity and femininity as ecocentrism and anthropocentrism predictors / Género, masculinidad y feminidad como predictores del ecocentrismo y el antropocentrismo

Abstract

The objective of this study is to analyse the function of gender-role orientation (masculinity and femininity) versus gender (man and woman) in explaining anthropocentric and ecocentric beliefs based on the Spanish version of the NEP scale. 116 university students of both genders participated in the study (Men: 51; Women: 65). The NEP scale and the BSRI were used. Covariance and stepwise hierarchical regression analyses were conducted. The results suggest that, while anthropocentrism is predicted by gender and masculinity, ecocentrism is only predicted by femininity. The results obtained demonstrate the important role femininity may play in predicting environmental concern and suggest the need to analyse in greater depth the role that gender-role orientation can play in explaining gender differences in pro-environmental attitudes.