Abstract
Using multiple regression techniques, this research examines the relationship of gender and of masculinity— femininity to self-reported emotional intimacy in same-sex friendship among male and female college students, a segment of the population for which friendship is thought to be of particular salience. Findings indicate that, as hypothesized, males report significantly lower levels of emotional intimacy in same-sex friendship than do females. Masculinity, defined in terms of “instrumental” qualities, has little effect on the degree of reported intimacy, while femininity, defined in terms of “expressive” qualities, is positively associated with intimate friendship. Findings for differences among individuals classified on combinations of masculinity and femininity are also presented. Results are interpreted in view of sex-role expectations which appear to prohibit displays of emotional vulnerability among men.
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The author wishes to thank Frank Bean for his many contributions to the research on which this paper is based. Appreciation is also extended to Susan Marshall for comments on an early draft.
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Williams, D.G. Gender, masculinity-femininity, and emotional intimacy in same-sex friendship. Sex Roles 12, 587–600 (1985). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00288179
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00288179