How to Discourage Stereotyping
In different kinds of psychologies, stereotyping has different definitions but the most accepted one is that it’s a preconceived thought about some person, thing or phenomena. These theories can be correct or incorrect and sometimes they also disturb others emotionally.
No matter you are living in a hostel, working in an office or playing in a team, it is very important to discourage stereotyping to ensure safe environment. For that, you will have to educate people around you and teach them how to appreciate differences between cultures.
Though, it is difficult to change someone inside out but with some techniques you can do it without great ease.
Instructions
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1
Determine their mindset:
First of all, you must determine what stereotype means for them. Mostly, people believe that the racial discrimination is only example of stereotyping but it’s not right. It has much more complexities as people make assumptions based on others’ age, origin, gender, abilities etc. Sometimes, you can stop stereotyping by just informing people around you as most of them do not know what stereotyping actually is. -
2
Teach them to appreciate the differences:
Sometimes, people do not understand each other. They do not bother to know about the origin, race or other things of the opponent and build an inappropriate image of that person. You can keep them away from this habit by teaching them how to appreciate the differences. You should ask them to read about other person’s religion, culture, gender etc and ultimately they will be able to come close. -
3
Ask them to find commonalities:
Even the worst enemies have something common in between them so you should ask them to find some common grounds. The best way is to engage them in a dialogue as this will help them to drain the negative thoughts about each other. However, you should play the role of a moderator during this debate. -
4
Speak Up:
You must ignore when someone is stereotyping. Raise your voice against this practice and register your disagreement. However, be polite while arguing otherwise your words of wisdom will lose the essence. The best way to correct any misinformation is with a subtle humour. Pass a light comment and make the person realise that he/she is doing something wrong. Moreover, this will perk up the victim of that stereotyping. -
5
Make a team:
If you have the authority then put people from different cultures in a team and ask to accomplish some task together.
