On Gender-Inclusive Language and Its Opponents’ Motivations
Summary
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.