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The distorted facade of gender stereotyping begins early in life. Girls are given cooking and baking sets, while boys receive superhero toys and racing cars. By the time we reach school age, the gender rift continues to increase. While boys are expected to be athletic, girls are expected to be the genteel, non-athletic counterparts. From magazines to advertisements and movies, we learn of societal notions and rigid gender norms.
While we are not born with the stereotypical notions of male and female, how is it that we are still able to acquire these beliefs even from such a young age and think of them to be true? The answer to this lies in the stereotypical notions embedded in society. As children grow, they learn everything from their surroundings and fall victims to the deliberate and sometimes unintentional conditioning they are subjected to. From telling girls to not be loud to reprimanding boys for crying, as “boys don’t cry”. Well, it sounds cliché, but it is true.
But before we talk about girls being repressed, let us zoom out a bit and take a look at the bigger picture. Guys are also expected to fall into specific behavioural categories, or they will not be ‘manly enough’. We are all expected to fit into certain moulds, and if someone does not fit into it, they are forced to. What is ignored is the fact that each and every person is unique, and the stereotypes are shackles that affect us in numerous ways.
The next question, naturally, is, how can we deal with gender stereotypes. Lo and behold! The answer lies within us. Each and every one of us is unique, with the power to raise our voices. It is our responsibility to break gender stereotypes, and these are a few ways by which we do so.
Being aware of sexism
Question certain stereotypes that we take as normal but are social constructions in reality. The day everyone starts questioning these norms, a wave of change will take over and rid us of sexism.
Join forces for equal education
The more people involved in this type of education, the more effective it will be. It is imperative to educate our society, as education brings awareness and makes people susceptible to accept changes.
Deal with the issue of equality without complexes
Ignore third-party criticism or pressure in addressing equality issues. Taking the right call is what matters the most.
Think laterally
Reinforce children in their preferences regardless of whether or not they correspond to what the stereotype makes us expect. Freedom to express themselves is what every child deserves.
It is time to break gender stereotypes. It is high time we stop labelling people. We don’t have the right to question anybody’s choices.
Author: Neerja Chillar
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