Gender stereotypes disrupt the beautiful balance of gender diversity that is so necessary!
Along with modernization and education, there has been a lot of rises in the mentality of many people in our society. Backdated ideas that men and women should behave in a certain way or do certain things that 'fit' their natural instincts are being vehemently opposed worldwide. Many celebrities are also breaking conventional gender norms imposed by society to show a ray of hope for many people out there to embrace their gender identity regardless of societal pressure.
Effects Of Gender Stereotypes That Shape Our Personality
Gender stereotypes set different rules for men and women to follow. These rules are imposed on us from childhood. We are being conditioned to think and behave in a specific manner which not only harms our potential for personal growth, but also inhibits human behavioral aspects. Gender stereotypes are a factor behind many of the narrow-mindedness and gender-related crimes prevalent in our society. Today we will talk about 3 important aspects of gender stereotypes that obstruct the psychological and existential growth of any person.
Men Must Be Masculine
Gender stereotypes teach men from childhood to behave in a strong way that is different from women! Men are like blocks made of cement for whom any emotional problem or weakness is universally excluded! Those who show their vulnerable side are called 'girly' in our society. Men are taught to be the main breadwinners of a family and the guardians of women in the family. Men are supposed to be protectors of women which automatically empowers them to take action against women's disobedience! Excessive expectations of masculinity often result in the toxicity that causes many crimes against women. Both men and women are human beings who are equal in every aspect of life. Backdated gender stereotypes are dismantled to establish a harmonious loving bond between each gender identity in our society.
Women Should Be Submissive
According to prevailing gender stereotypes, women are supposed to be docile, dutiful and passive. Women should do all the housework and take care of the children while the male partners take care of the finances. They are not supposed to be too vocal in any situation of life. 'Ideal Women' should always remain silent, even if a stranger approaches her unfairly, harasses her or deprives her of her basic birthright! She has to endure all the pain and injustice in silence! Our society still marks aspiring women or independent women as unworthy of respect due to gender stereotypes and questions their sanctity.
Celebration Of The 'Gender Binary'
The entire existence of individuals of genders other than men and women is still largely ignored in our society. When gender stereotypes are given so much importance, it is quite understandable why society denies equal rights and representation to those who do not fit the old gender-specific norms. The normalization of gender stereotypical attitudes has cornered a large section of people who have been fighting for their rights for a long time.
