Stereotypes In The Workplace

“Of the many influences on how we view men and women, media are the most pervasive and one of the most powerful. Woven throughout our daily lives, media insinuates their messages into our consciousness at every turn. All forms of media communicate images of the sexes, many of which perpetuate unrealistic, stereotypical, and limiting perceptions.” (Wood 31). The hit NBC show, The Office, contains exemplary examples as to how men and women are stereotyped and treated, mainly in the workplace. Michael Scott, the Scranton Branch manager of Dunder Mifflin, is a prime example of a man who stereotypes workers, especially women, in the workplace. Although the show has characters that are misogynistic idiots, such as Michael, they are making fun of
When Phyllis is not around he asks, “Phyllis you say? Did he even see Pam? Or Karen from behind?” Since Phyllis is a larger and older woman, Michael does not find her as attractive as the younger women such as Pam or Karen. The fact that the man exposed himself to someone older and larger rather than a younger female confuses Michael causing him to make jokes at the women’s expense. Society often criticizes women who do not have the perfect body type or are not as attractive as others are. Michael Scott is someone who cares about appearances more so than the personality of a person, and that is what is wrong in society. His reaction to the news causes the workers to go quiet and many of them maintain facial expressions associated with disgust or discomfort. Michael also makes jokes about his penis being out by sticking his finger through his pants zipper. Once again, everyone seems to be uncomfortable by the way Michael handles the news. Although no one says very much, his or her silence is an indicator of how inappropriate Michael’s behavior is. When Toby walks in and sees what is happening he tells Michael, “I don’t think laughing about it is an appropriate response.” Toby is the voice in the silence that tells Michael what he is doing is wrong when everyone else is too uncomfortable to do so. Since Michael is the superior at work, he does not take kindly to someone disagreeing with him. He will often turn the joke
We need to find a place where you feel comfortable...The Steamtown Mall.” Not only does he mention that it is a man’s world, but he assumes that in order to feel better about the flashing, the only solution is to go to the mall, because that is where women feel comfortable. The assumptions that all women love shopping and use it to de-stress are not only stereotypical assumptions but also sexist. Not all women enjoy shopping, but in Michael Scott’s eyes, all women do. He does not ask any of the men if they would like to join, only proving the case of sexism even more. Later on, Michael treats the girls to whatever they want from Victoria’s Secret. While most of the girls jump at the chance of free clothes, Angela sits and waits for the others to try on lingerie. “You don't want anything? My treat. Some panties or... pick a thong or... G-string. T-back. Get a nice bra. Padded bra. See-through, push-up, lace? Thigh-high? Bustier? Any - it just - you know what; I would love to buy you a fresh set of underwear.” Her conversation with Michael is offensive and over stepping his boundaries. Angela is obviously uncomfortable with his questions. She keeps herself slightly turned away from him and does not make eye contact, she often rolls her eyes or makes a disgusted face with her mouth by what Michael says. It is clear that Michael is trying to be thoughtful,