Gender Stereotypes

Gender stereotypes are over-generalizations about the inherent traits and behaviors attributed to and expected of men and women based on social and cultural norms. Despite the social progress in many countries, gender stereotypes persist. Women may still be labeled as caring, timid, and emotional, while men may be described as smart, strong, and stoic. The persistence and negative effects of gender stereotypes has prompted a gender-neutrality movement in which a concerted effort is made to avoid differentiating people by gender. You may have heard of gender-neutral parenting or you may have noticed that major retailers are selling gender-neutral clothing lines. While the movement has its critics, there is an increasing population of people who are concerned with how stereotypes harm men, women, and children. For example, young girls may be discouraged from exploring an interest in science because science is viewed as a masculine subject. Similarly, boys may be discouraged from expressing their emotions, which is perceived as a more feminine activity, and encounter difficulties in close relationships as adult. How did gender stereotypes come to be and why do they continue to persist? In this discussion, you will explore gender theories that help to answer these questions.

Review the section on stereotypes in the Encyclopedia of Gender in Media. Reflect on the meaning and implications of gender stereotypes.

Describe one gender stereotype that exists. Then explain how gender theories (e.g., gender schema theory, moral reasoning, gender stratification theories) and related research might explain the development of this stereotype. Finally, explain the possible implications for individuals who identify as men, women, or non-binary if this stereotype you identified is perpetuated. Be specific.