Sex differences in mathematics tend to be somewhat larger in more gender-equal countries (GGGI coefficient B = 0.921, p = .051), controlling for region¶

Claim · All claims
Evidence · 1 study · quant-synthesis r2 · q4
Currency · newest study 2026 · not yet checked against its sources · not reviewed by a person

Subclaims¶

q4 i? The GGGI coefficient was positive (B = 0.921, p = .051), suggesting a tendency toward somewhat larger sex differences in more gender-equal countries when controlling for region. → Sara Caviola 2026

Evidence¶

Sara Caviola 2026¶

Sara Caviola, David Giofrè, Enrico Toffalini, Lorenzo Esposito, Irene Tonizzi, David C. Geary. (2026). Sex Differences in Mathematics: A Meta-analytic Review Across Content, Grades, and Geographic Regions. Educational Psychology Review. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10648-026-10125-8

q4 · i? · quant-synthesis · r2

Meta-regression moderator analysis using the Global Gender Gap Index as a numeric moderator entered jointly with content, grade, and region; removing GGGI significantly worsened fit (χ²(1) = 3.93, p = .048). The coefficient was only marginal (p = .051).

"The GGGI coefficient was positive (B = 0.921, p = .051), suggesting a tendency toward somewhat larger sex differences in more gender-equal countries when controlling for region."

Discussion¶

Learner Variables¶

• Gender — predictor: outcomes differ by group: a gap reflecting circumstances and treatment, not a cause

Related Claims¶

• National gender-equality and human-development indicators show no consistent correlation with sex differences in mathematics or reading across the decade — reports the opposite
• The mathematics sex difference favoring boys is more consistently found among higher-achieving nations, with considerable variability among lower-scoring countries — related