THE DEVOUT DIVIDE: ANALYZING THE GENDER GAP IN RELIGIOUS BELIEF AND PRACTICE

Abstract

In the field of religious studies, it is a near universally accepted fact that, on average, women are more religious than men. This acceptance is based on numerous studies and surveys that repeatedly reinforce this knowledge. Despite the general acceptance of this fact, there is no clear consensus on why women are more religious than men. Numerous potential factors have been explored to explain the gap, including differences in socialization, risk aversion preferences, and hormonal influences; however, no single factor stands out as a universally significant element. This research adds to the conversation by exploring how the gender gap in religion is affected by the sociocultural factors of more significant concerns regarding personal safety and the need for community support in traditionally patriarchal societies. A survey was used to collect data from University of Arizona students regarding their views on religion, religious belief, and religious community. The results suggest the concept that personal safety concerns and a need for community support influence religiosity in women because women look for and gain a unique sense of safety from religious belief and participation compared to their male peers. This study introduces a new aspect contributing to the religious gender gap that merits further examination.