Which term describes attitudes toward women that are paternalistic and chivalrous but still reinforce gender inequality?

• A. Aversive racism
• B. Brain drain
• C. Co-ethnic
• D. Benevolent sexism

Answer: (D)

This question tests benevolent sexism, which describes attitudes toward women that are paternalistic and chivalrous yet maintain gender inequality. It presents as praise or protection—women need to be kept safe, treated as delicate or morally pure—but this softness reinforces traditional roles and justifies keeping women from power or challenging careers. In other words, it feels positive, yet it subtly limits women and sustains a hierarchy where men hold authority. In contrast, the other terms don’t describe gendered attitudes: aversive racism is about racial prejudice, brain drain refers to skilled workers leaving a country, and co-ethnic relates to sharing the same ethnicity.