Female Supremacy Articles - Page 20

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The concept of women holding office comes at a complex cultural moment, however. Actress Geena Davis -- who played a president on ABC's "Commander in Chief" -- plans to appear at the National Press Club to address "the importance of women leaders to the future of America's democracy." A spokesman said yesterday that Miss Davis will share the dais with members of the White House Project, a District-based interest group promoting, yes, a lady president and feminine leadership.

Mr. Campbell and Miss Wolbrecht say the phenomenon of female politicians benefits teenage girls because of their emotional -- and girlish -- natures. The study authors found that girls react more emotionally to the media-driven hubbub of politics than boys.

"Female candidates lead girls to have greater confidence in political institutions. Because fellow women are involved in politics, girls may view political institutions as more responsive to their concerns and worthy of their trust," the authors say.

Female politicians also inspire productive girl talk, leading girls to "envision" themselves as political participants.

"Girls and their peers may react to the presence of female politicians by adding politics to the list of topics they discuss among themselves, and that they will discuss with their teachers and parents," the authors continue. "The singular importance of discussions at home underscores the primary role played by the family in the process of political socialization."