Gender stereotyping is defined as the over generalization of characteristics ,differences and attributes of a certain group based on their gender.
It limits the achievement of gender equality of society as a whole.
Gender stereotyping limits the advancement and growth of boys and girls ,men and women by attributing them with certain norms and rules of society.
Perceptions of society towards women
Women are said to be victim of gender stereotyping for a long time . Women are categorised with certain type of attributes and traits ,which limits them and confine them to that particular work.E.g.- If women were cooking food earlier ,and doing home chorous ,child care ,they are assigned these work and that they are only good in these works not others . These biases not only affect women's overall productivity ,but also hinders their growth ,education etc.
Perceptions of society towards men
While lately a lot has been talked about women ,men are also equal victim of gender stereotyping. Men are expected to conform to certain norms of society . A man is said to be bread winner of the family. From the younger age ,they are looked as a men who could serve their family ,earn high income ,become strong ,always excel in study and get job.
Remedy :
- Combating gender stereotyping and sexism in and through education
- Making gender neutral law
- Encouraging women in STEM (Science ,technology ,Engineering and Mathematics )
- Combating and preventing sexism and sexiest hate speech
Conclusion :
Stereotyping in our society is deeply engrained. While women /girls are most affected ,it also affect men/boys .So abolishing gender stereotyping must be the collective responsibility of the government ,society ,international organisation like United Nations to real gender equality and hence give everyone equal opportunity of growth and advancement irrespective of their genders.