Intergenerational Transmission of Traditional and Contemporary Gender Ideologies via Father-Son Memorable Messages

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the memorable messages (N = 198) fathers transmit to sons about “being a man.” Five dominant themes emerged from fathers’ messages: work ethic, morality, strength, family provider, and other. Overall, our results suggest that fathers’ messages promote both traditional and contemporary gender ideologies. The prevalence of the work ethic and morality themes demonstrate fathers’ role in teaching sons about integrity, commitment, and fair treatment of others. Based on our findings, we suggest future researchers explore mothers’ gendered messages, fathers’ generativity, and father-son relational quality.

Keywords:

• Father-Son Communication
• Gender Ideologies
• Intergenerational Transmission
• Memorable Messages
• Undifferentiated Gender Identity

Acknowledgment

This study was part of the first author’s master’s thesis, for which the other authors served as committee chair/members and provided invaluable direction and support. Special thanks to Dr. Nicholas Bowman and the anonymous reviewers for your constructive feedback throughout the publication process.