| dc.description.abstract | Sex differences in critical flicker frequency (CFF)
have been found by Hartmann (1934) and Ginsburg et al.
(1982), with men appearing to be more sensitive than
women* The nature of these sex differences has been
questioned. Ginsburg et al. (1982) have suggested that
these differences may be due to hormonal influences that
could be further explored by studying CFF across the menstrual
cycle. It has been proposed by Bern (1974) that sex role
perception might be a variable involved in sex differences*
The present study was designed to explore the sex difference
in CFF and two interpretations of it;.: the influence of
hormones and the influence of sex role perception. The
former variable was investigated by looking for changes
in sensitivity during the menstrual cycle, since any such
found would imply a hormonal basis. The latter variable
was studied thru the use of the Bern Sex Role Inventory,
which includes both femininity and masculinity.scales.
Two experiments were conducted using a CFF task based
on the method of limits. In Experiment I, three female
volunteers with menstrual regularity were tested three
times a week for two complete menstrual cycles. In
Experiment II, 30 male and 33 female subjects were tested
once on the CFF task and the Bern inventory. In addition. all females answered a questionnaire concerning their
menstrual cycle*
A significant sex difference in CFF was found, with
men more sensitive* Ho clear relationship was found
between CFF and the menstrual cycle, either in subjects
tested repeatedly over the cycle or in the larger group
tested once# Sex role perception showed no relation to
CFF among females. However, among males some relationship
was observed which suggests further study. | |
