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Stereotypes In Children Essay

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Stereotypes In Children Essay
A New Normal

The older we get the more we are defined by our gender. Children start to develop a sense of gender and the characteristics that accompany their sex as young as the age of two. Over time, they begin to recognize stereotypes that women and men possess. They are led to believe that only girls are only allowed to do feminine things such as cook or draw. Boys are only allowed to take part in activities that are deemed as masculine like participating in sports or playing with trucks. Many factors are at fault and lead many to believe and follow certain stereotypes. Teaching children stereotypes confuses them and can reaffirm the sexist ideas we are trying to diminish. There are mainly three things that impact a child’s views on gender: society, parental and peer influences, and popular culture. These influential factors make it difficult for children to develop their own ideas on gender. Though some do argue, stereotypes help children differentiate between genders and help them recognize what behavior is appropriate for each sex. Overall the standards we place on children could be …show more content…
It is said that pop culture is a reflection of our society’s values, which creates rituals, beliefs, misconceptions, and popular icons expressing those values. The article, “Why Does Gender Matter? Counteracting Stereotypes With Young Children” written by Olaiya E. Aina and Petronella A. Cameron in 2011, explains the effects of popular culture, “Gender stereotypes are pervasive in the media and popular culture. Consumer products inundate children with gender-typed messages on bed sheets, towels, bandages, clothes, school supplies, toys, and furniture”. Products are marketed specifically for each gender and a child has to pick from a designated area based on their sex. Media advertisements and movies can show children unsettling and unfair portrayals of men and women, just another way negative views are
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