Gen Z men embrace outdated gender roles more than older generations, study finds
A new Ipsos study reveals surprising attitudes towards gender roles, particularly among younger men. Published ahead of International Women's Day, the research shows that Generation Z men often hold more traditional views than older generations. Many Germans still see gender equity as unfinished, despite progress in recent decades.
The survey, conducted between December 2025 and January 2026, included over 23,000 participants across 29 countries, with around 1,000 in Germany. It found that 61 percent of Gen Z men believe current equality measures are sufficient, compared to just 49 percent of baby boomer men. Even more striking, 31 percent of young men think a wife should always obey her husband—a view shared by only 13 percent of boomer men.
In Germany, opinions remain divided. While 52 percent agree that more women in leadership would benefit the country, nearly 30 percent feel gender equality initiatives have gone too far. Men are more likely to hold this view (37 percent) than women (22 percent). Only 13 percent believe full equality has been achieved, though 62 percent consider it a personal priority.
Attitudes on domestic roles also show a gap between personal beliefs and perceived societal expectations. Just 10 percent of Germans think housework is a woman's duty, yet 44 percent assume society still expects it. Similarly, 15 percent see childcare as a woman's responsibility, but 44 percent believe this reflects broader norms. Overall, 46 percent of Germans feel enough has been done for equality, with men (55 percent) more likely to agree than women (36 percent).
The study highlights a contrast between self-perception and reality among younger generations. Despite seeing themselves as progressive, many Gen Z men uphold traditional values on gender roles. In Germany, the push for equality continues, with most recognising leadership gaps but differing on how far reforms should go.
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