Researchers from Nelogy examined attitudes toward stereotypes surrounding International Women’s Day and found that both men and women share remarkably similar frustrations. The study’s insights were shared with socialbites.ca, highlighting how cultural expectations shape daily perceptions, even in a modern, diverse society. The inquiry gathered a sizable sample to understand how stereotypes influence behavior, feelings, and conversations about gender roles across different generations and regions.

In total, 2,642 people participated in the survey, with roughly three-quarters identifying as women (75%) and one-quarter as men (25%). A striking pattern emerged: Russians expressed the strongest concern about the notion that men should fix household tasks only on March 8 and about the expectation that a woman who has not borne a child does not deserve congratulations. These specific beliefs appear to be tied to longstanding cultural script about family duties and celebration norms, even as broader social norms continue to shift. The results suggest a tension between traditional expectations and contemporary views on equality and shared responsibilities, a tension felt across both genders and multiple age groups.

The data further reveal that nearly half of male respondents (45%) feel uneasy about being expected to perform traditional “female” duties throughout the day, signaling a desire for more balanced distributions of household and caregiving tasks. Among female respondents, a notable segment — 53% — express discomfort with pressures to alter their personal presentation or behavior to fit predefined gender norms, such as becoming more feminine, wearing skirts more often, or smiling more to meet external expectations. These responses illustrate an ongoing dialogue about autonomy, self-expression, and the evolving meaning of femininity in everyday life. The survey highlights how stereotypes can constrain both men and women, shaping everyday choices far beyond the holiday itself and influencing attitudes toward relationships, work, and social interaction.

Additionally, exactly half of the participants (50%) believe that Russia may benefit from an International Men’s Day. Of these supporters, 17% view it as a new holiday in itself, 18% see it as a platform to address contemporary men’s issues, and 15% hope that such a day could contribute to achieving greater gender balance in society. These reflections point to a broader conversation about recognizing diverse experiences and focusing on equality rather than competition. The findings underscore that the push for gender-balanced norms is not limited to women’s visibility on International Women’s Day but also includes broader awareness around men’s health, responsibilities, and social expectations. The study underscores the importance of inclusive dialogue, where both sides acknowledge shared responsibilities and celebrate progress while remaining mindful of persisting stereotypes that affect daily life. (Source: Nelogy survey via socialbites.ca).