University of the People

SOC 1502 Introduction to Sociology

Chinasa Eke-Mcclean (Instructor)

Written Assignment Unit 4

09 December 2021
Introduction

Stereotyping comes in different forms. We have the gender, racial and ethnical

stereotype. People face discrimination, prejudice and racism on a regular basis. In this

written assignment, I will be discussing how the above forms of stereotype is seen in our

day to day lives and also how the stereotype contributes to discrimination in institutions

and also how they can be eliminated.

In our day to day activity, stereotyping can be seen in gender, where a woman is expected

not to only take care of the house chores but also remain there because they are believed

to have nothing else to offer in the society while men go to work and schools (Little, et al,

2014). This things are expected from the female folks right from the early age and in the

process the dampened the futures of these young girls. While the racial stereotype occurs,

an example is where an African is not given opportunities or privileges due to their skin

color. The whites are seen to be superior and privileged.

Sociologist focus on the kind of discrimination that deals on the social structure, (Little et

al, 2014). This kind is known as institutional discrimination. Girls are not expected to be

so smart and their intellect are expected to be low in the society. The roles expected of

them is less demanding while boys are expected to be intelligent and smart and this will

make the girls feel less about themselves than boys. Isolating institution from the society

is not something that can be easily achieved. Stereotyping can also add to

institutionalized discrimination whereby a woman is prevented from getting a particular

office role due to the way society views them. They are only given lesser job position and

this could be disheartening.

To eliminate discrimination and the other forms of stereotyping, the educational system

plays a vital role. People are enlightened through school and values and morals are being

inculcated in them. It will also help in eradicating the gender inequality that is

predominant.

According to new research  (Gender Identity & Roles | Feminine Traits & Stereotypes,

n.d.)., challenging these stereotypes sometimes help both sex, not minding the gender to

feel valued. When people are making derogatory statements we speak up. Point out any

sexist comment made and giving it a try in doing things that are associated with the

opposite gender after considering if it is safe for us or not.

Conclusion:

Society should endeavor to accept gender inequality. Giving women the chance to reach

their full potentials. Institutional discrimination can be properly handled by addressing

gender, racial and ethical stereotyping. The educational system should also work towards

instilling the necessary morals and values in the lives of individuals.

Word Count: 492

References:
Little, W. et al. (2014). Introduction to sociology 1st Edition. Openstax textbook

https://opentextbc.ca/introductiontosociology

Planned Parenthood. (2021). What are gender roles and stereotypes?

Gender Identity & Roles | Feminine Traits & Stereotypes. (n.d.). Planned Parenthood.

https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/gender-identity/sex-gender-identity/what-are-

gender-roles-and-stereotypes