Read the introduction and then look at the list. Which of the stereotypes do you believe are really true today?
Stereotyping is no different when it’s found out that a boy, not a girl, is on the way.
The nursery is decked out in blue, his wardrobe is filled with tiny jeans, polo shirts, and boots, and the theme is usually something like jungle animals or dinosaurs. Boys’ toys are lorries, dinosaurs, action figures, and video games. From the beginning boys are taught to be tough, to be protective, and to defend themselves. Boys are taught that daddies go to work, and mummies stay at home.
Are you surprised to hear that most parents admit that they do not teach their sons how to do jobs such as washing dishes or folding laundry? Instead, they teach them to take out the rubbish and mow the lawn. From the beginning boys are made to think that certain household jobs are women’s work. Men are supposed to do the dirty jobs and anything that requires muscle. They are also supposed to go to work and provide for the family. Little boys see this and the stereotype continues.
Other gender stereotypes that try to describe all men are:
- All men enjoy working on cars.
- Men are not nurses, they are doctors.
- Men do dirty jobs such as construction and mechanics. They are not secretaries, teachers, or cosmetologists.
- Men do not do housework and they are most definitely not responsible for taking care of children.
- Men play video games.
- Men enjoy outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, and hiking.
- Men are in charge and have the top jobs.
- As husbands, men tell their wives what to do.
- Men are lazy.
- Men are good at maths.
- It is always men who work in science, engineering, and other technical fields.
- Men neither cook nor sew.
