Behavior Online: Does Anonymous Computer Communication Reduce Gender Inequality?

Abstract

Two studies examined dominance and self-stereotyping in mixed-sex groups who had online discussions. Gender differences in dominance varied as a function of several contextual variables: individuation, the accessibility of gender stereotypes, and the fit between group task and stereotype. Results of the second study indicate that only when group members are depersonalized (anonymous and not individuated) does stereotype activation produce gender-stereotypic behavior. However, the nature of stereotypic behavior is moderated by the fit between group task and stereotypes, such that men dominate when the topic is masculine but not when it is feminine. These findings do not support suggestions that the anonymity offered by online communication would lead to equalization. Instead, results confirm predictions from a social identity model of deindividuation effects that social effects of anonymity and identifiability in (online) groups depend on contextual factors such as stereotype accessibility and fit.