The Social Construction and Stereotypes

Everyone's life is affected by social construction. This is the belief that social standard is determined by society, and it is formed by the individuals that belong to the society. Just Like when an individual thinks of a certain professions that are held by males (i.e. doctors or lawyer). Similarly are the professions that are held by women in our society (i.e. housewife or nurse). This is thought to be the role of equity and equality should play in today's society. These may not be the equal of choice for the individuals, but what the government believes is socially acceptable.
Social construction of health refers to the way health varies in different societies. Many societies regard health differently; alternative medicines, and the social and economic state may affect the way illness is handled. There are still faults with the theory( i.e. social constructionist's make a judgment about health, denying the input of science, where as figures are factual and have strong evidence in order to support their outcome).
Race was created by society. There is no scientific proof that defines what "race" you are; it is only an idea that individuals came up with. Yet, people in today's society still categorize individuals by their race they most resemble. People believe that the whiter you are, the better off you will be in life. People who are lighter skinned are more socially acceptable, will be treated differently, and will be respected more than those who appear darker skinned.
Social construction of gender is the belief that people everywhere follow guidelines or rules implemented on them by their own society according to whether they are male or female. Women and men are treated unequally due to their sex. Not only does a social construct set standards for how men and women should act but there are many beliefs as to what men and women should look like.
As children grow up their attitudes and behaviors impact how they are affected by gender roles. These attitudes and behaviors are generally learned in the home, by the child's peers, school experience, and the media. Through all these socialization agents, children learn gender stereotyped behavior.
A child's earliest exposure to what it means to be “male” or “female” comes from parents. Parental views have a strong impact on the child's sense of self and self-esteem. Messages regarding gender and what is acceptable for each sex are then internalized by the child. Messages about what is appropriate based on gender are so strong that even when children are exposed to different attitudes and experiences, they will revert to stereotyped choices.
Today, every one of us is spending more time getting information from the media (i.e. watching TV or reading newspapers). The shows on the TV and the articles in the newspapers influence our decision process. A positive fact is that we are better informed and in touch with the latest news. However, on the other hand, by following the media so closely, as a society, we are becoming dangerous in deciding what is acceptable or not. The media infiltrate our lives, guiding us in what are we supposed to wear, and how we are supposed to look and act.
Peer pressure is an issue for teens, caused by wanting to fit into certain groups. However, not all peer pressure is a negative influence, such as academic and athletic achievement. Studies show that most teens/adolescents feel that being in a group gives them popularity with their peers. The average teen feels pressure either from the school, peers, or parents; thus enticing the need to belong to groups.
These stereotypes are something we have grown to be accustomed to. It is given that stereotypes separate people into categories, thus not allowing people to achieve things outside of the standards set by stereotypes. Many people broke through these boundaries and did what they desired. Those who are out to change things and make a difference are those who want change the most.