Female Presidents Face Approval Disadvantage Despite Policy Success

Introduction

Presidential approval ratings matter in presidential systems. But how does public perception vary by gender? This study reveals a significant disadvantage for female presidents.

🔍 Gender Stereotypes Shape Approval Dynamics

Drawing from political science research and psychological insights, the paper theorizes that male and female presidents are subject to different evaluation criteria based on gender stereotypes.

📊 Comparative Analysis Across Democracies

Using quarterly data from eighteen Latin American democracies, South Korea, and the Philippines, we examine approval patterns across genders over multiple presidential terms. Our findings confirm theoretical predictions about sex-based approval gaps.

📉 Approval Gap & Responsiveness

Female presidents consistently receive lower baseline approval compared to their male counterparts. Their support is more volatile during security crises or corruption events.

💡 Practical Implications

These results challenge assumptions about gendered political leadership while highlighting how stereotypes affect democratic accountability systems across different regions.