What is Stereotyping

Sterotype Meaning And Sterotype Definition

Stereotyping Definition:

Assigning a wide range of generalized attributes to an individual on the basis of membership in particular culture or social groups, For instance assuming that an older colleague will out of touch with the youth market or that a younger colleague cannot be inspiring leader are the example age group.

Stereotype Examples:

Negative Stereotypes

• All blond women are dumb.
• All red heads are sluts.
• Christians are homophobic. They are blinded by God and will recruit you if you go near them.
• All politicians are philanders and think only of personal gain and benefit.
• If I wear Goth clothing I'm a part of a rock band, depressed, or do drugs.
• Girls are only concerned about physical appearance.
• Guys are messy and unclean.
Positive Stereotypes
• All Blacks are great basketball players.
• All Asians are geniuses.
• All Indians are deeply spiritual.
• All Latinos dance well.
• All Whites are successful.

How to Overcome Stereotyping?

The world is filled with misconceptions about people based on race, religion, gender, politics and ideologies. What is difficult is trying to overcome or redefine a stereotype, Ethnocentrism and xenophobia. Here are some steps to help toward eliminating the problem.

Instructions

o 1
Begin by examining the basis of the stereotype and why it is widely held. This is the first step in taking away stigma. If we can see that a stereotype is based on wrongly held assumptions, we can take away the power of the stereotype.
o 2
Evaluate the reasons for the power of the stereotype. For example, is the stereotype powerful because it is based on fear? Most instances where stereotypes have a stronghold are based in miscomprehension and anxiety over not understanding differences in people and ideas.
o 3
Encourage acceptance of differences rather than demonizing differences. We are all products of our upbringing and background, and we are all wonderfully different. When we accept these differences and even encourage them, we overcome and redefine stereotypes.
o 4
Think outside the box. Just because the mainstream believes a certain way, does not make it right. The cornerstone of a free society is its willingness to look at things from multiple perspectives. By doing so, we redefine and debunk stereotypes.
o 5
Check your own ideas about people who are different from you. Think about the kinds of stereotypes you place on others. As Michael Jackson writes, "I'm starting with the man in the mirror."