How Does Stereotypes Affect Society

Stereotypes are all around us. It is something that exists beyond the realm of society’s consciousness. Stereotypes influence judgement, childhood, and character. These are some of the ways that society is trying to solve the puzzle of our differences as a whole.
Whether we consciously make the decision to judge another person, we always have, and always will. When walking by people, something either repels or attracts us. The way they’re dressed, the way they walk, and even the way they smell may intrigue us to ask them how to get to the nearest bathroom or get to the other side of the hallway so as not to come into close contact. Judgment is something that happens naturally, whether we realize or not.
As children, the thought process behind stereotypes was developed through the actions as well as reactions witnessed from our parents. For example, a child is told by her father to be wary of a group of motorcyclists in leather jackets at a local diner one afternoon. She is more likely to make judgments throughout her adolescence and even into adulthood of any member of a motorcycle gang. We are always looking up to our parents for insight and direction as children and adolescents. Children learn from what they are taught as well as what they see. If surrounded by a family who does not agree with gay

marriage, she will most likely grow up with the same thought, being that it’s what her parents believe. If surrounded by a family who passes no racial judgment, the likelihood of her marrying someone other than her own ethnicity goes up, because there is no underlying thoughts of what her family may think of that decision.
Stereotypes influence character in many ways.

It is so common for our society to conform to popular opinions. This is because of the stereotypes they don’t mind being a part of and where labels descend from. If the label fits, why not take it and run with it? Well, we all do, with a conscious effort or not. When in a bad neighborhood, it is rare to see a gang member without representation of his brotherhood. This is because the label fits and he doesn’t mind. He wants to be seen as dangerous and intolerant of disrespect. He also wants it to be seen that he has people waiting for you if you try anything. Our character is reflected in what we say, do, wear,

etc.
As humans, it is natural to categorize everything, even people. We try and make sense of everything that’s going on around us, which is where science is derived from. Stereotypes are everywhere, even when we’re not looking. Our judgments, childhood, and character are just three of the things we have affected by naturally categorizing the universe in a way that makes more sense.