Stereotyping seems to be a common issue in today’s society. Everyone, whether you are young or in your 60s, male or female, black or white, religious or non-religious, is at risk for stereotyping. Above I have listed only some of the traits that contribute to stereotyping, however, the list of traits is endless. I myself am a young female. I am 20 years old, 5”3’ and roughly 170 pounds. These characteristics, my gender, age, height and weight, contribute to how others see me and how I see myself. It is not out of the ordinary that if a person is used to being stereotyped then said person would begin stereotyping himself or herself the same way.
I am a female. I understand that there are just some things that males excel at compared to females. However, I don’t believe that women should have to endure a comment such as “the women belongs at home taking care of the household and children.” If a woman wants to be a stay-at-home mom then she should pursue that dream. A woman should not decide to be a “homemaker” because society tells her that is all she can be.
I am a mere 20 years old. If a person is of young age, it is a common misconception he or she lacks the knowledge and common sense to make an informed decision regarding life matters. Contrary to this statement, younger people can be knowledgeable and driven. The stereotype that today’s younger generations are unmotivated and foolish should not impact how young people see themselves and alter their perspectives on themselves.
I am short for a woman. I have learned to accept that I have no more growth spurts in my future, maxi dresses will forever be too long on me and I will always have trouble reaching the top shelf. Someone who is short should not let their height affect their outlook on life. I never have to worry about dresses being too short, I can alter maxi dresses to my length and I can use a chair to reach the top shelf, most of the time. Of course I will always be on the receiving end of countless short people jokes.
I am not skinny, nor fat. I am healthy. It seems to be a common stereotype that someone of my size shouldn’t wear certain clothing and is unhealthy. Deciding on what to wear is an everyday challenge for most women in general. In conjunction to this thought, when a woman, or any one for that matter, is told that their “size” should hinder him or her when deciding what to wear, it can create doubt in that person’s mind of their visual appeal and value. As for my health, I eat well and have a clean bill of health regardless of my weight.
Other people’s perceptions of who you are based on these traits should never change how you view yourself. Stereotypes within society will always exist in one way or another, but you have the power to not let it affect you. I am all of these things that I mentioned above, but most importantly I AM ME.
