#58. Gender Stereotypes

This Conversation Will Help You…

1. Name at least two gender stereotypes for men and women
2. Determine ways in which they and their friends do not fit stereotypes
3. Say what is harmful about gender stereotypes

Think About This First

• Young people in King County who we surveyed listed "Gender Stereotypes" as a root cause of sexual violence. They, and people they know, have experienced sexual violence as a means of punishment for not being a "typical" or "normal" man or woman.

• When discussing and thinking about gender stereotypes, it is important to know that this is a societal-wide issue and not just individual viewpoints and acts.

Having the Conversation

Start here:

What do you think of when someone says “Act like a man”?

What about ”act like a lady”?

How many of these characteristics are realistic?

Which ones are stereotypes?How do you know they are stereotypes?

How do these stereotypes change among different cultures, racial groups, and age groups?

Do you think anyone fits all the way into the ideal man or woman category?

Why or why not?

Continue:

What are some ways that you don’t fit in?

What are some ways that I don’t fit in?

What are some ways that your friends don’t fit in?

Is it okay to not fit in all the way?

Where do you think these stereotypes come from?

Keep Talking:  

Why are stereotypes considered harmful?

They don’t really allow people to be all of who they are - they limit us in terms of how we can look and act.

Does that seem fair?

What would be better, do you think?

What happens to someone if they do not follow gender stereotypes?

Do you think they are more likely to be bullied or harassed?

How so?

How could we get rid of gender stereotypes?