On Gender-Inclusive Language and Its Opponents’ Motivations

Abstract

Gender-inclusive language has become increasingly visible in recent times − due to growing gender diversity − yet it is met with widespread criticism. To build on the existing categorization of criticism against gender-inclusive language, the purpose of this study was to identify underlying psychological mechanisms of this criticism. As such, online surveys were distributed to a sample of Dutch participants (N = 117). The resulting data was analyzed with a multiple regression analysis, MANOVA and a mediation analysis. Biological essentialism and precariousness of gender identity were identified as important predictors of negative attitudes towards gender-inclusive initiatives. Inclusion of a framing variable during the surveys resulted in null findings; implications for nudging and recommendations for future research on threat and gender essentialism are discussed.