I think this has more to do with the fact that there are (generally speaking) only two sexes. So if we talk about one lagging behind, then it is obvious that we

I think this has more to do with the fact that there are (generally speaking) only two sexes. So if we talk about one lagging behind, then it is obvious that we are comparing one to the other. On the other hand, if you were to speak about underachievement of the Hmong immigrants in the US, the conversation usually gravitates towards how to help narrow the gap, etc.