Gender Stereotypes: Definition, Examples, And Research

If you’ve ever walked through the toy aisles of a store, you may have noticed a difference between toys marketed toward girls and those marketed to boys. You may even have had the experience of wanting a toy traditionally labeled as “masculine” or “feminine.” Children’s toys are an example of how gender stereotypes can shape our lives from a young age, potentially influencing us in ways which we may be unaware of. 

Gender norms and stereotypes can inform the relationship between an individual and their sense of self, their family and community, and their culture. They may also contribute to measurable disparities between genders at the societal level. 

Here, we will explore gender stereotypes of and how they can affect us. We will also touch on how to overcome stereotypes through therapy. With an understanding of what gender stereotypes are and how they shape us, it may be possible to embrace diversity, authenticity, and equity.

Understanding gender stereotypes

Gender stereotypes are deeply ingrained societal beliefs and expectations about the characteristics, roles, and behaviors considered appropriate for individuals based on their gender. These stereotypes often reinforce traditional notions of masculinity and femininity, limiting individuals' freedom to express themselves authentically. 

While some gender norms may be rooted in biological differences between male and female, gender stereotypes typically arise from a society’s culture and traditions regarding women and men. They may be reinforced by media, institutions, and an individual’s family, community, and peers. In recent decades, however, attitudes have shifted within many cultures, with more widely-accepted recognition of gender diversity and less emphasis on traditional gender roles. Nevertheless, gender and gender stereotypes still play a significant role in the cultural landscape.

Examples of gender stereotypes 

Specific examples of gender stereotypes can vary between cultures; however, many of the same stereotypes have arisen independently in different cultures across the globe. These stereotypes exist today, even in less traditional, more liberal societies. Some common examples of conventional gender stereotypes include:

Breadwinner and homemaker

The expectation that men are primarily responsible for financially providing for the family, while women are expected to focus on household chores, childcare, and creating a nurturing home environment.

Occupational stereotypes

Certain professions are often stereotypically associated with a specific gender. For example, nursing and teaching are commonly associated with women, while construction and engineering tend to be male-dominated.

Emotional expression

Men are often encouraged to suppress emotions and exhibit stoicism, while women are encouraged to be more nurturing, empathetic, and emotionally expressive.

Physical appearance

Society often imposes different standards of beauty and physical appearance on men and women. For instance, women are often urged to conform to ideals of thinness, youthfulness, and physical attractiveness, while men are often expected to be muscular, tall, and exhibit physical strength.

Parenting roles

Traditional gender roles dictate that mothers are primarily responsible for childcare, nurturing, and emotional support, while fathers are pressured to be disciplinarians and providers.

Domestic responsibilities

Women are often assumed to take on the majority of domestic labor, such as cooking, cleaning, and laundry, while men may have fewer or different expectations regarding household tasks.

Decision-making

Historically, men have been portrayed as decision-makers in various contexts, including major life choices, financial matters, and leadership positions, while women have been stereotypically depicted as more submissive or lacking decision-making power.

These examples reflect traditional gender roles and stereotypes, but societal attitudes are evolving to challenge and redefine these expectations. For example, a recent study from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that in about 65% of households, both parents are employed, and many families now divide household and childcare duties more equally between parents. 

Consequences of gender stereotypes: What the research says

Limited opportunities and achievement gaps

Stereotypes can lead to limited opportunities for individuals. For example, research has shown that gender stereotypes can influence educational and career choices, which may contribute to the gender pay gap. Stereotypes can discourage individuals from pursuing certain fields or leadership positions and perpetuate gender disparities in various domains.

Psychological effects

Stereotypes can negatively affect self-esteem, self-confidence, and well-being. Internalizing stereotypes about one's gender can lead to feelings of guilt, self-doubt, or anxiety. For instance, gender stereotypes regarding physical appearance (e.g., that men should be tall and strong) can impact confidence and self-worth. 

Stereotype threat

Stereotype threat refers to the phenomenon where individuals underperform or experience increased anxiety in situations where they are aware of negative stereotypes about their group. Research has shown that stereotype threat can impair academic, sports, and professional performance, affecting an individual's ability to reach their full potential.

Relationship dynamics

Gender stereotypes may shape relationship dynamics and expectations. For example, traditional gender roles may lead to unequal distribution of parenting and household responsibilities, which may affect relationship satisfaction and equity. Stereotypes about masculinity and femininity can also impact communication patterns, emotional expression, and relationship power dynamics.

Health and well-being

Stereotypes can have implications for physical and mental health. For instance, rigid expectations around masculinity can discourage men from seeking help with their mental health, leading to higher rates of untreated mental health conditions. Stereotypes related to body image may contribute to body dissatisfaction, disordered eating, and body image issues in people of all genders.

Perpetuation of bias and discrimination

Stereotypes can perpetuate bias and discrimination, leading to systemic inequalities. They may reinforce prejudice and bias, influencing hiring decisions, promotions, and opportunities. For example, research has found that young women often experience hiring discrimination, which may be attributable to their perceived likelihood of becoming mothers and not prioritizing their careers. 

Gender stereotypes and mental health

Stereotypes may have a significant impact on mental health. Broadly speaking, gender roles can create a set of expectations that may be unrealistic or even undesirable. In some cases, these expectations might undermine personal agency; for example, a woman may feel compelled to choose motherhood over career pursuits due to her community’s expectations of women.

These conflicts between self and society may contribute to a wide range of mental health concerns. For example, gender roles may play a role in:

• Emotional suppression

• Self-esteem and body image issues

• Stress and anxiety

• Pressure or perfectionism

• Stigma and discrimination 

Additionally, those who defy gender norms may face unique mental health challenges related to gender identity, gender expression, and gender-affirming care. In addition to creating supportive and inclusive communities, mental health care may be helpful for overcoming complex gender issues.

Therapy for overcoming gender stereotypes

If you are experiencing conflict between living your truth and conforming to what’s expected of you, it may be worth considering talk therapy. In therapy, you can work through issues related to gender roles, gender stereotypes, self-esteem, and more. Queer, trans, and gender-nonconforming individuals may also benefit from the help of an LGBTQ-friendly therapist who can offer understanding and guidance for navigating complex questions about gender identity.

Here are some types of therapy that may help explore gender:

• Self-acceptance training
• Positive psychology
• Existential therapy
• Feminist therapy
• Narrative therapy

In some cases, locating a therapist who offers the type of therapy you are interested in may be challenging. In such situations, online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp can help. With BetterHelp, you can connect with a therapist who has your values and practices the type of therapy you seek. Online therapy may benefit those living where affirming mental health professionals is limited or where distance or logistics pose barriers to in-person care. 

Through online therapy, you can find a therapist who specializes in your area of concern—no matter where you are. Online therapy tends to be more affordable than traditional face-to-face therapy and has been found to be just as effective as in-person sessions.

According to the American Psychological Association, more than three-quarters of those who enter therapy receive some kind of benefit, and significant gains can often be made in short-term treatments. Mental health challenges can stem from complex relationships with one’s culture and society, and talk therapy can offer a supportive space to work through these issues.