Publication: Perception towards gender and non-gender bias related images: an event-related potential comparison between male and female
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Date
2025-12
Authors
Malmqvist, Elif
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Abstract
This study explores the differences in perception, attentional bias and neurocognitive processing between male and female participants when viewing gender-specific and gender-neutral images related to the transport industry. Gender bias continues to hinder equality, infringe on human rights, and obstruct sustainable workforce progress. Thus, it is crucial to understand how this bias is recognized and processed at the neural level. Utilizing an Event-Related Potential (ERP) framework, the study assesses both conscious and implicit neural reactions to gender-biased, non-gender-biased, and neutral visual stimuli among healthy Malaysian adults aged 35 to 55.
The research employed a within-subject observational experimental design conducted in a controlled laboratory environment in Malaysia, ensuring uniform conditions such as a quiet room, regulated lighting, and minimal external disturbances. Data were collected during a structured recording session lasting around 30 to 45 minutes per participant, which included preparation, EEG setup, and stimulus presentation.
Using an observational research design with the oddball paradigm and electroencephalography (EEG) recordings via the g.GAMMA system, the study measured N200 and P300 amplitude and latency. Behavioral metrics such as reaction time and accuracy were also recorded. The distribution characteristics of the ERP amplitude and latency data were assessed using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov and Shapiro-Wilk tests across four electrode sites (Oz, Cz, Pz, and Fz). The results indicated significant deviations from normality (p < .05) in various electrode-condition combinations, validating the application of non-parametric statistical methods.
Following this, Friedman tests revealed notable within-group differences across stimulus conditions for both male and female participants (e.g., females: χ²(2) = 32.46, p < .001; males: χ²(2) = 38.10, p < .001), indicating systematic variations in neural responses to gender-biased, non-gender-biased, and neutral stimuli. Wilcoxon signed-rank tests further identified significant pairwise differences (Z values ranging from approximately −2.78 to −4.14, p ≤ .005), particularly highlighting quicker responses to gender-biased stimuli and slower reactions to neutral stimuli.
Additional analysis uncovered significant gender differences in the neural processing patterns when participants engaged with gender-related stimuli. Variations in N200 responses indicated differences in early attentional allocation and conflict-monitoring processes, while differences in P300 responses reflected variations in stimulus evaluation and cognitive categorization. These findings suggest that the perception of gender-related workplace images is not consistent across genders and involves diverse neurocognitive processing pathways.
In summary, this study offers empirical insights into the neural processing of gender bias and enhances our understanding of cognition in workplace settings. The findings may guide the creation of targeted interventions aimed at mitigating bias and fostering equitable decision-making within organizational contexts.
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Keywords
Event-Related Potential (ERP) , Gender bias