Stereotypes are “a widely held but fixed and oversimplified image or idea of a particular type of person or thing(Oxford Languages).” Stereotyping is important, especially in this day and age. Without them, we would learn every day how to behave at family gatherings, in class, or what to eat for dinner. But when it goes too far, it can lead to misunderstanding and offense, and when they become too rigid for growth. Especially, with stereotypes about sexual orientation, race, gender, disabilities, and other characteristics change how people perceive others. Historically, specific groups of people have been depicted by the entertainment industry, social media, pop culture, and the government has led to biases—usually unconscious—which results in discrimination and mistreatment against marginalized groups. For example, in high school those who excel at sports or cheerleading are labeled are “dumb” while those who are good at academics are “nerds”. This effect is especially influential among the susceptible minds of young children and youth. To break firmly established stereotypes is not easy, but it all starts with ourselves to reduce them in order to embrace diversity and promote inclusivity. 

Steps to breaking and overcoming stereotypes- 

• Self Understanding- Individuals must realize that they make, have made, and will continue to make mistakes. But by being more aware of your thoughts of others and the information you consume, individuals can prevent perpetrating such stereotypes. When interacting with different groups of people, have an open mind and periodically refine your judgment. Ways to learn more about others respectfully is learning languages, traveling(new cities, countries, continents), trying new food, etc. 

• Promote Change Among Your Workplace/School- When you see people being discriminated against, stand up for them. In schools one out of every five students report being bullied, which harms our community. This step is very important as it reduces an exclusive community and promotes an inclusive society. If you are unsure about stepping in a situation, talk to a trusted adult in your place of work. In schools, talk to your counselors or teachers for help. This will ensure understanding of the situation and ensure change. 

• Incite Social Change- Changes among your non-work settings are just as important are your workplace settings. Indivdiuals can practice this by reducing “buying habits” of companies that follow discriminatory practices. Additionally, sign up for public speaking events and thought talks to talk about your own experiences. 

When we start to learn and gain awareness, our toxic stereotypes of others decrease, and we can educate others to challenge stereotypes. We can learn to associate with, interact, and make decisions about others in a positive insight and judgment. In our high school community, these harmful ways of stereotypes can harm teens in many ways. With the right help, you can protect our community and help each other grow. Negative stereotyping can have a severely detrimental impact on you and others but it doesn’t define your future. 

Sources: 

https://www.pacer.org/bullying/info/stats.asp 

https://www.medialit.org/reading-room/how-break-stereotype 

https://www.td.org/atd-blog/breaking-down-barriers-and-stereotypes 

https://genderedinnovations.stanford.edu/terms/stereotypes.html