Gender and Support for Reagan: A Comprehensive Model of Presidential Approval

Abstract

This article examines the sources of differences in approval of President Reagan's job performance. Employing data from the I982 National Election Study survey, a comprehensive model of presidential approval is developed. Analyses are conducted separately for men and women and then compared item by item to locate the demographic and attitudinal sources of Reagan's gender gap. The results indicate that military and social welfare issues are the most important components of the gap, while demographic differences, women's issues, environmental protection, and reactions to Reagan's perceived personal qualities matter little, or actually reduce the difference in approval of the president.