Influences on Attitude and Behaviors: Part 1

In addition to these influences affecting the way we think about relationships, they can also influence us to believe certain stereotypes. According to the Sexual Trauma Services of the Midlands, Columbia, South Carolina, a stereotype is an assumption about a person based upon a feature -- such as religion, economic status, gender, or race -- that is then used to classify that person.

An example of a stereotype would be that all tall people are good at basketball. This simply isn’t true. All stereotypes are hurtful or limiting in some way. For example, Marvin, who is 6′2″, might be embarrassed by his lack of athletic ability. He shouldn’t have to explain this every time basketball comes up. Instead, people around Marvin should work to not make assumptions based upon his height.

Our beliefs are influenced by the things and people around us, but we need to be aware of the opinions we are forming. As we mentioned before, stereotypes are hurtful and limiting of the individuals being affected.

Have you ever heard of gender stereotypes before? Imagine if no girls were allowed to play sports or if boys weren’t allowed to go to college. Seems pretty silly, doesn’t it? We are all unique individuals, and we shouldn’t limit ourselves, especially not because of something like gender. Not all girls wear pink, and not all boys lift weights. And that’s okay! By breaking down stereotypes, we invite everyone to pursue their interests, without judgment, and the result is beautiful: We all grow as a society. There is no such thing as the perfect man that all boys should strive to be. There is no such thing as the perfect woman that all girls should idolize.

We need to remember to think of each other as individuals in order to keep ourselves safe and happy. Any person, regardless of gender, can have poor self-esteem or become a victim of abuse or harassment. We need to work to stay open-minded in order to protect ourselves and each other.