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Broader gender inequities shape why romantic relationships matter more to men than to women

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  01 June 2026

Lilly Shoemaker Open the ORCID record for Lilly Shoemaker [Opens in a new window] ,
Alyssa DeBlaere Open the ORCID record for Alyssa DeBlaere [Opens in a new window]  and
Amy Muise Open the ORCID record for Amy Muise [Opens in a new window]
Lilly Shoemaker*
Affiliation:
York University, Toronto, ON, Canada lillyhs@yorku.ca deblaere@yorku.ca muiseamy@yorku.ca
Alyssa DeBlaere
Affiliation:
York University, Toronto, ON, Canada lillyhs@yorku.ca deblaere@yorku.ca muiseamy@yorku.ca
Amy Muise
Affiliation:
York University, Toronto, ON, Canada lillyhs@yorku.ca deblaere@yorku.ca muiseamy@yorku.ca
*
*Corresponding author.
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Abstract

Romantic relationships matter more for men’s well-being than women’s, a disparity rooted in broader gender inequity. Gender socialization and benevolent sexist ideologies set up romantic relationships to benefit men – socially, emotionally, and practically – while overburdening women. Recognizing the structural forces and broader attitudes sustaining these inequalities is essential to understanding – and ultimately addressing – gendered relationship dynamics.

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Open Peer Commentary
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Behavioral and Brain Sciences , Volume 49 , 2026 , e125
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© The Author(s), 2026. Published by Cambridge University Press

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