All The World’s A Stage : A Narrative Review on The Impact of Gender Norm Conformity on Self Esteem From 1975-2020

Abstract

The relationship between self-esteem and gender norm conformity has been one that has changed over the years. Due to the dynamic results over different periods of time, the authors found it relevant to conduct a review of literature over a period of 45 years. 44 articles were included in this review from the period 1975-2020. The articles included were mostly empirical ones. We found different models (androgyny, masculinity and congruence) gaining momentum over different time periods. Additionally, we saw how most researchers found a positive connection between masculine gender norm conformity and self-esteem. We showed how the patriarchal system of society and the socio-cultural contexts of different periods of time influenced our findings. We concluded that neither masculinity nor femininity is inherently linked to self-esteem.