Sex-Role Attitudes of Mormons vs. Non-Mormons in Utah

Abstract

Using 1980 survey of 242 male and 216 female Utah State University students this study examines attitudes toward sex roles by Mormons and non-Mormons. 65% of the students are members of the Church of Latter-Day Saints (LDS) or Mormon Church which has disapproved of womens pursuits that interfere with traditional female roles. 11 survey questions measure 1) conflict between family and economic roles 2) attitudes on economic equality and 3) perception of societal rewards versus economic rewards. Affiliation with the LDS Church is the main independent variable. Both male and female LDS students havemore traditional attitudes than non-LDS students: 62% of LDS as opposed to 12% of non-LDS students agree that a womans place is in the home 44% of LDS males and 51% of LDS females as opposed to 9% of non-LDS students agree that women should work only when the family has economic hardship. LDS and non-LDS students generally agree that women should receive equal wages for equal work although women are somewhat more likely to agree. LDS students perceive more rewards for women who stay at home than non-LDC students. Religious affliation is the most important variable concerning the role of women; other significant variables are 1) coming from large family 2) sex and 3) having more highly educated mother. Sex number of years in school religious affiliation and mothers work experience prove significant in considering equal pay for equal work. The authors conclude that for issues on which the Mormon Church takes strong stand religion strongly outweighs other variables; when the Churchs stand on issues is weaker other variables such as sex and years of schooling have greater influence.