Psychology XC 1B

Functional English
Speaking and Listening Assignment
Mohammad Haider Rehman Malik
01-171232-054

SECTION A

Q1. Where do children get their ideas from about other people, about other countries, other
continents? Can you think of examples from your own youth?

Children often form their ideas about other people, countries, and continents through various
sources such as family, friends, schools, media (including books, movies, and television), and
personal experiences. In my own youth, I remember reading adventure books that portrayed certain
cultures in specific ways, often focusing on a singular aspect of that culture. These stories, while
entertaining, sometimes provided a limited or stereotypical view of those cultures, contributing to
the danger of a single story by not showcasing the diversity and complexity of those societies.
Additionally, discussions with family or friends, along with the portrayal of certain regions in the
news or popular media, also played a role in shaping my initial perceptions, which I later realized
were incomplete and sometimes inaccurate representations.
Q2. How do children deal with prejudice, do you think? How vulnerable are they? Are they told that
they have the wrong impression, if that's the case, or do they grow older thinking they have the right
ideas about others? Give examples.

Children often internalize and navigate prejudices differently based on their upbringing, exposure to
diverse perspectives, and the guidance they receive from adults or influential figures in their lives.
They can be vulnerable to adopting prejudiced views when exposed to limited or biased information.
If children are consistently exposed to a single story about a particular group or culture without
receiving alternative perspectives, they may grow up believing that narrative to be the whole truth.

However, children are also remarkably adaptable and open to learning. When provided with
opportunities to interact with individuals from diverse backgrounds or when presented with a more
comprehensive understanding of different cultures, they can challenge and adjust their perceptions.

For instance, if a child consistently hears negative stereotypes about a specific group but later
encounters individuals who defy those stereotypes, they might question or reconsider their initial
beliefs. Similarly, educational interventions, discussions, or experiences that offer multifaceted
portrayals can help children recognize the limitations of a single story and encourage them to form
more nuanced and empathetic perspectives toward others.For example
If a kid hears something bad about a group of people, like saying they're all mean, and nobody tells
them that's not true, the kid might grow up thinking it's right. But if adults show them that everyone
is different and should be treated nicely, the kid can learn better.

Q3. Have you or anyone you know ever encountered prejudice of any kind? What remark set this off?
What was the response? How can you deal with prejudice?

Prejuidice can manifest in various forms, whether it's based on race, gender, religion, ethnicity, or
other factors.

Encountering prejudice can be hurtful and challenging. Responses to prejudice vary depending on
the situation and the individuals involved. Some respond by directly confronting the person making
prejudiced remarks, calmly explaining why the remarks are offensive or incorrect. Others might
choose to disengage or remove themselves from the situation.

Dealing with prejudice often involves educating others about the impact of their words or actions,
promoting understanding through respectful dialogue, and advocating for equality and diversity.
Encouraging open-mindedness, fostering empathy, and seeking out diverse perspectives can also
help combat the dangers of a single story by promoting a more inclusive and informed worldview.
For instance, if someone makes a mean comment because of how someone looks, a good response is
to stay confident and not let it bother you. It’s important to talk to a trusted person about it, and
remember, everyone is unique and special in their own way. Dealing with prejudice involves staying
true to yourself, understanding others’ perspectives, and promoting kindness and respect.

Q4. With whom do you identify at present? Have you got a 'hero', a person or relative you believe in?
Why is that person the one to inspire you? If you haven't got one, why not?
Ans:
I find inspiration from various people and experiences in different aspects of life. I believe that
inspiration can come from many sources, and I appreciate learning from a diverse range of
individuals and their unique qualities.” But my hero is my dad I inspire from his resilient spirit.
Despite of his demanding job he managed to be present for every important moment in my life,
offering guidance and unwavering support . He has taught me valuable lessons about facing
challenges and finding strength within myself. While he may not be a ‘hero’ in the traditional sense,
his everyday actions and the values he instills in me make him a source of inspiration and guidance.

Q5. How can people avoid putting 'labels' on others? Do you ever raise questions when it comes to
labelling people as poor, stupid, rich, arrogant, superficial, etc.?

Avoiding labels involves consciously acknowledging the complexity and diversity of individuals rather
than reducing them to simplistic stereotypes. One way to avoid labellingA others is by practicing
empathy, seeking to understand people as individuals with unique experiences, backgrounds, and
motivations. It's crucial to question assumptions and stereotypes when encountering labels like
"poor," "stupid," "rich," "arrogant," or "superficial."

When discussing such labels, it's important to ask questions that prompt deeper understanding and
avoid making assumptions solely based on a single characteristic or perception. Encouraging open-
mindedness and considering various perspectives can help in seeing people as multifaceted beings
beyond simple labels.

SECTION B

sentences using the words from the video "The Danger of a Single Story":

1. To dispossess:The policies aimed to dispossess the indigenous communities of their ancestral

lands, leading to their displacement.
2. Abject: The abject conditions in the refugee camps highlighted the urgent need for humanitarian
aid.
3. Close-knit: Growing up in a close-knit neighbourhood fostered a sense of community among its
residents.
4. Repressive: The repressive regime stifled freedom of expression and basic human rights.
5. To devalue: It's crucial not to devalue someone's experiences based on superficial judgments.
6. To invade: The invaders sought to impose their culture on the indigenous population.
7. Conventional: She came from conventional middle class Nigerian family..
8. Affordable: Providing affordable education is essential for equitable access to learning
opportunities.
9. Sequel: The sequel to the book was well-received and justified the author's decision to continue
the story.
10. Contemporary: The contemporary art exhibition showcased diverse artistic expressions.
11. To nurse ambition: Encouraging individuals to nurse ambition fosters personal growth and
development.
12. Resilience: Despite facing numerous challenges, her resilience helped her overcome adversity.
13. To thrive: With determination and hard work, he managed to thrive in his new business venture.
14. To refurbish: They decided to refurbish the old building, transforming it into a modern office
space.
15. Justified: She felt justified in telling me what to write in a sequel.

SECTION C

Information based on the topic and content of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie's TED Talk "The Danger of
a Single Story."
Regarding the story about her visit to Mexico:
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie often emphasizes the danger of a single story, which involves having a
narrow or incomplete view of a place or people based on limited information or stereotypes. In her
talk, she might discuss her personal experience of visiting Mexico and how it challenged her
preconceived notions or stereotypes about the country. The story likely illustrates how her initial
impressions were changed or broadened by encountering diverse perspectives and experiences
during her visit, demonstrating the importance of avoiding a single narrative about a place or culture.

Regarding the example about 'American Psycho':

Adichie might use the example of 'American Psycho' to illustrate how literature or media can
perpetuate singular narratives or stereotypes about certain groups or cultures. She might discuss
how the portrayal of characters in the book 'American Psycho' reflects a limited or skewed view of a
particular segment of society, potentially reinforcing stereotypes or misconceptions. This example
could highlight the impact of literature and media in shaping our perceptions and the importance of
seeking diverse and multifaceted representations rather than relying on a single story.