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More than monoliths: The gendered dynamics of support for torture in the United States

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  • Laura Huber

Abstract

The gender gap in support for political violence is one of the most consistent findings in foreign policy literature. Beyond gender, an individuals’ gender ideologies may also impact their reactions to terrorism and their support for torture. While support for masculine honor culture increases anger after terrorism as a perceived threat, neosexism dampens anger as violence is normalized. Yet both gender ideologies support the torture of suspected terrorists. A survey of US-based individuals finds support for these hypotheses. This study refines our understanding of the gender gap by underlining the importance of not only individual gender, but also gendered beliefs.

Suggested Citation

  • Laura Huber, 2026. "More than monoliths: The gendered dynamics of support for torture in the United States," Conflict Management and Peace Science, Peace Science Society (International), vol. 43(4), pages 368-390, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:compsc:v:43:y:2026:i:4:p:368-390
    DOI: 10.1177/07388942251370222
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Mary-Kate Lizotte, 2017. "Gender Differences in Support for Torture," Journal of Conflict Resolution, Peace Science Society (International), vol. 61(4), pages 772-787, April.
    2. Cohen, Dara Kay & Karim, Sabrina M., 2022. "Does More Equality for Women Mean Less War? Rethinking Sex and Gender Inequality and Political Violence," International Organization, Cambridge University Press, vol. 76(2), pages 414-444, February.
    3. Louise Lemyre & Michelle Turner & Jennifer Lee & Daniel Krewski, 2006. "Public Perception of Terrorism Threats and Related Information Sources in Canada: Implications for the Management of Terrorism Risks," Journal of Risk Research, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 9(7), pages 755-774.
    4. Joshua Tschantret, 2020. "Honor and Terrorism: Cultural Origins of the Severity of Terrorist Attacks," Social Science Quarterly, Southwestern Social Science Association, vol. 101(1), pages 325-345, January.
    5. Laura Huber, 2019. "When Civilians Are Attacked: Gender Equality and Terrorist Targeting," Journal of Conflict Resolution, Peace Science Society (International), vol. 63(10), pages 2289-2318, November.
    6. Javed Younas & Todd Sandler, 2017. "Gender Imbalance and Terrorism in Developing Countries," Journal of Conflict Resolution, Peace Science Society (International), vol. 61(3), pages 483-510, March.
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