Effects of Gender Stereotyping
The effects are not something to be proud of. In a society, such discrimination can lead to inadequate standards of living, or marriage and family relations, education, freedom of expression, restricted movements, skewed political representation, and increase in gender based violence.
For the young minds, it can affect their self-esteem, leading to poor mental health. Girls can feel inadequate or ‘not-good-enough’ about their developing bodies; the boys will feel compelled to cultivate ideas of toxic masculinity to cover up their shortcomings.
Why is it important to stop it?
Growing up on this staple diet of confused and convoluted thinking can distort one’s attitude towards the other sex. If the children are from infancy treated equally, and not discriminated against based on their sex, then it will create a more healthy environment for them to grow in.
Gender stereotyping enables society to follow a prejudiced mindset which is not conducive for its progress. It leads to unconscious biases, making assumptions about perceived backgrounds. It affects our behaviour towards others.
More and more females are breaking the glass ceiling and making their mark. And I’m sure their journey hasn’t been easy. It’s time the men remove the prejudiced blindfold, and participate in dismantling the outdated stereotypes, which will be of help to them too. What’s heartening is the baby steps taken in that direction and ever growing number of participants.
Let’s start at home and in schools
Step 1
It’s important to create a gender-neutral environment at home and in schools. Chores can be distributed between the siblings according to their age and capability, not sex. Parents should involve both the sons and daughters in the tasks at home. Good habits like making your bed or helping in the kitchen must not be gender-based.
Step 2
Teachers should educate the students about stereotyping and its ill effects. The teachers should themselves practice non-stereotypical attitudes towards the students. Like, avoid expecting the girls to be well behaved and the boys to be boisterous.
Step 3
When talking about role models, consciously choose a diverse set of role models. No selecting only male scientists and female fashion models. To develop an inclusive mindset, emphasis must be on their accomplishment and not on physical attributes.
Step 4
At schools, the tasks should not be allotted as per the sex of the child. Sports should be made available to all, not just football for boys and Kho-Kho for girls. Students must be allowed the freedom to choose the subjects of their choice and not based on stereotypes.
Step 5
More and more parents must encourage discussions at home about gender stereotyping. Children will learn watching the adults, so practice before you preach. It’s important to provide the correct environment at home for the child to challenge stereotypes and help create a more inclusive society.
Step 6
Create awareness by recognising and understanding gender stereotypes prevalent in society, media, and personal beliefs. By acknowledging these stereotypes, individuals can begin to challenge and address them effectively.
Step 7
Educate yourself and others about the harmful effects of gender stereotyping on individuals and society. Learning about diverse gender identities and expressions promotes inclusivity and acceptance.
Step 8
Speak up against gender stereotypes and challenge biased attitudes whenever encountered. Encourage open discussions and provide alternative perspectives to challenge ingrained stereotypes.
Step 9
Support initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion in all areas of life, including education, workplaces, and media. Celebrate the achievements and contributions of individuals regardless of gender.
Step 10
Lead by example by rejecting gender stereotypes in personal interactions and decision-making. Advocate for equal opportunities and treatment for all genders, fostering an environment of respect and equality.
A quick wrap-up
A tall order given that centuries of social conditioning have now become an accepted norm. To expect changes overnight would be both impractical and dangerous.
Knee-jerk reactions to any situation never lead to the desired results. But a start has to be made, and changes are slowly but surely happening.
Let’s be part of this change to make it a better future, a better world for our children.
You can also read –
Can we nurture empathy in children with these 5 steps?
Harnessing experiential learning for Child development
Are parents responsible for the behaviour of their children?
