Uncovering Stereotypes

Goals:

·  To help you become aware of stereotypes you may hold

·  To help you identify the likely source of those stereotypes show individuals how their culture programs them to react to and judge others in automatic and stereotypic ways

·  To become aware of how those stereotypes can create barriers

Time Required:

30 minutes

Materials:

Worksheet grids

Instructions for Students:

Stereotypes are broad generalizations and descriptions of people based on the group they belong to. Stereotypes are very common.

Using the grid below, fill in the information about each of the groups. Rely on your first reaction and judgment; do not over-think these. Read each group name and put down your thoughts using descriptors or short phrases; then indicate how you have developed this impression. Finally consider whether your reaction is positive, negative, or neutral.

For example:

Group / Your reactions and judgment / Your source / Rating
People with glasses / Smart; likes to read / My family; personal experience;
school / Neutral to positive
People who tan often / Self-absorbed; overly conscious of their appearance / Personal experience / Negative

This exercise is for you to increase your awareness. The information is for your use; no one will see these unless you want to share this. Be honest and do not go back to change what you have put down.
Here’s Your grid

Start with filling out the groups that are indicated; then add groups that you have strong reactions to that are not on the list.

Group / Your reactions and judgment / Your source / Rating
New Yorkers
Smokers
African Americans
Heavy people
Caucasian or European Americans
Muslims
Athletes
Hispanics
Cheer leaders
People with HIV
Asians

Questions and Reflection

·  What groups bring out the strongest reactions?

·  What is the most common source of your “stereotype?”

·  Can you see any kind of pattern? For example, the most negative stereotypes are generated based on….; or ethnic group tend to generate….; or I seem to really like/dislike….

·  What are the implications of the stereotypes you hold? How do they impact how often and how you interact with members of each group?

·  What are some things that you would like to change? How can you go about doing that?

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