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Gender, competition, and performance: Evidence from chess players

Author

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  • Peter Backus
  • Maria Cubel
  • Matej Guid
  • Santiago Sánchez‐Pagés
  • Enrique López Mañas

Abstract

This paper studies gender differences in performance in a male‐dominated competitive environment chess tournaments. We find that the gender composition of chess games affects the behaviors of both men and women in ways that worsen the outcomes for women. Using a unique measure of within‐game quality of play, we show that women make more mistakes when playing against men. Men, however, play equally well against male and female opponents. We also find that men persist longer before losing to women. Our results shed some light on the behavioral changes that lead to differential outcomes when the gender composition of competitions varies.

Suggested Citation

  • Peter Backus & Maria Cubel & Matej Guid & Santiago Sánchez‐Pagés & Enrique López Mañas, 2023. "Gender, competition, and performance: Evidence from chess players," Quantitative Economics, Econometric Society, vol. 14(1), pages 349-380, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:quante:v:14:y:2023:i:1:p:349-380
    DOI: 10.3982/QE1404
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

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    2. Jung, Dain & Kim, Jun Hyung & Kwak, Do Won, 2024. "Who Benefits from Single-Sex Schooling? Evidence on Mental Health, Peer Relationships, and Academic Achievements," IZA Discussion Papers 17330, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).
    3. Gomez-Ruiz, Marcela & Cervini-Plá, María & Ramos, Xavier, 2024. "Do Women Fare Worse When Men Are Around? Quasi-Experimental Evidence," IZA Discussion Papers 16782, Institute of Labor Economics (IZA).
    4. Johannes Carow & Niklas M. Witzig, 2024. "Time Pressure and Strategic Risk-Taking in Professional Chess," Working Papers 2404, Gutenberg School of Management and Economics, Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz.

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