Gender Stereotypes - Students

Abstract

When we hear the word “gender,” we often think only of “male” or “female.” However, gender is much more than that: it is a set of ideas, expectations, and social norms that tell boys and girls, men and women, how they “should” act, feel, or look (Moss-Racusin, 2021). These sets of predefined beliefs are called gender stereotypes, and they can affect us in almost every area of our lives, from school to personal relationships. Gender stereotypes are generalized and simplified ideas about the characteristics or behaviors people should have based on their gender. For example, the idea that boys should be strong, never cry, and not show emotions, while girls should be sensitive, caring, and “good” and obedient (Eagly & Wood, 2012). These stereotypes do not come out of nowhere. They are built throughout history and passed down through family, school, the media (films, series, music, social media), and even through the way people speak to us from an early age (Ridgeway, 2011). The problem is that, very often, these stereotypes limit our choices and can lead to discrimination or prejudice.