Abstract
Statement of Problem: White collar crime is perceived as less serious than more conventional street crimes because of their covert nature, however differences in this perception do occur when analyzing for variations between respondents. Gender has been identified in the literature as a variable that is found to have a relationship with an individual’s perception of white collar crime seriousness, however previous studies measuring the gender variable are employing questionable methodology. This study attempts to correct the flawed methodology through conducting survey research and applying the Social Cognitive Theory of Gender Development and Differentiation. Data Collection and Analysis: An online survey is used in this study consisting of 18 questions to measure gender identity and the respondent’s perceived seriousness of white collar crime. Pearson r correlation coefficient formula is employed to assess if there are relationships between the independent and dependent variables. Conclusions Reached: Findings in this study are contradictory to previous studies. As respondent’s confidence in their ability to protect themselves from physical harm increased, their perceived seriousness of white collar crime decreased. Because this gender role statement was found to be strongly correlated with masculinity the argument can be made that respondents in agreement with this statement identify with the male gender role.