Abstract

The present qualitative study examines self-perception of gender typicality, previous knowledge about gender typicality and gender identity, and attitudes toward gender typicality at school. To this end, the authors interviewed 120 Italian students (84% female; Mage = 20.9; SD = 1.4). Results report that most participants perceived themselves as more typical to their same gender (65%) and underline the lack of knowledge about the meaning of gender typicality (only 10% report to be familiar with the construct) and gender identity (only 12% report to be familiar with the construct). Using thematic analysis, the researchers identified three main themes: (1) (in)experience and (un)preparedness of school context; (2) gender stereotypes and prejudice; (3) gender typicality and bullying. Participants report that it is necessary to improve the knowledge about gender typicality in teachers and students of different grades to reduce gender stereotypes and prevent bullying at school.