Double Standard

Definition of Double Standard

The Canada social science dictionary [1] provides the following meaning of Double Standard: A cultural practice that accords less freedom and choice to one sex than the other. The term is usually used to refer to different norms of sexual morality for women than for men. Men’s sexual activity is viewed positively as natural, right and normal, whereas women are seen as diminished in status if they engage in free sexual relationships outside marriage. This double standard of conduct was once severely oppressive to women (and still is in many non-western societies), but has reduced relevance in western societies today where pre-marital sexual activity is normative for both sexes. See: STATUS OFFENCE in this legal dictionary and in the world encyclopedia of law.

Double Standard: Resources

Notes and References

• Drislane, R., & Parkinson, G. (2016). (Concept of) Double Standard. Online dictionary of the social sciences. Open University of Canada