# Perceptions of fairness in gender relations: a qualitative study of South Korean middle-aged men

## TL;DR

This study explores how South Korean middle-aged men perceive gender equality and their responses to what they see as reverse discrimination.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into the psychological and social responses of middle-aged men to gender equality in rapidly changing South Korean society.

## Key findings

- Four main causes of perceived reverse discrimination were identified, including changing roles and gender prejudices.
- Responses to perceived discrimination included denial, compliance, and cognitive restructuring.
- The findings offer a basis for counseling and policy development to reduce social conflict and promote mutual understanding.

## Abstract

This study aims to explore how middle-aged men perceive gender equality and fairness, and to investigate the underlying causes and behavioral responses to what they perceive as reverse discrimination. Specifically, it seeks to deeply understand the unique challenges and shifting perceptions of middle-aged men in the context of rapid socio-cultural transitions currently occurring in South Korea.

This study employed qualitative research methods, conducting semi-structured in-depth interviews with 15 middle-aged men who have children. The collected interview data were rigorously analyzed using the Consensual Qualitative Research (CQR) method to ensure objectivity. The research team individually reviewed the interview transcripts and systematically analyzed the data through three distinct stages: domain identification, core ideas extraction, and cross-analysis.

The study identified four main domains as the causes of perceived reverse discrimination among middle-aged men: uncomfortable expectations and prejudices, perception of preferential treatment towards women, changing roles and responsibilities, and lack of institutional support. Additionally, their responses to perceived reverse discrimination were categorized into three domains: denial/suppression, involuntary compliance, and cognitive restructuring.

This study provides important insights into how middle-aged men react to gender equality policies and broader social changes. These findings offer a foundational basis for psychological counseling and policy development. Furthermore, the results contribute to reducing social conflicts and fostering mutual understanding in the ongoing process of promoting gender equality within Korean society.