Perceptions of Masculinity and Femininity among Uyghur Muslims in China

Abstract

The Bem Sex-Role Inventory (BSRI) is the most frequently tested gender role instrument. However, many studies have examined the BSRI with convenient samples drawn from university campuses. Moreover, the link regarding the BSRI’s cross-cultural applicability is weak. To partly address these two issues, this paper examines whether the BSRI is applicable to Uyghur Muslims in China. Data are drawn from a survey on Uyghurs (N = 844) conducted in Urumchi in 2007. The sample was drawn from the general population using the probability proportional to size selection sampling method. Data analysis shows a satisfactory internal consistency of the BSRI and a good degree of similarity between Uyghur men’s ratings and the Uyghur women’s ratings for masculine and feminine traits. The BSRI seems to be more relevant for Uyghurs than Americans as the patterns of the desirability ratings arranged in rank seem traditionally gender typed. Data analysis also shows the need to modify the BSRI before it can be used productively inthe social contexts outside North America.