Most Misunderstood Stereotypes

Where there is a will, there is a way! People subconsciously categorize others into various groups. Every person in these groups is then stereotyped to be a certain way. Stereotypes are widely believed mental pictures of a group, and although there is some truth in them, it can be exaggerated. Misconceptions, on the other hand, are views that are based on untruths and are formed from having such stereotypes. It is known that within a group, there are many commonalities. However, not everyone in that group has those characteristics, but are assumed and stereotyped to have them simply for being a part of that group. Therefore, stereotypes, which form from some truths, differ from misconceptions, which come from the untruths. One of the most misunderstood …show more content…
The Internet, for example, as well as other sources, exposes people around the world to information and images about all types of groups of people. This information is then quickly, but consciously accepted to be true. Even if one disagrees with the information, it is easier to accept it and fit in with the others who blindly agree with it. The untruthful information is often repeated and therefore stored in the back of one’s mind. It is used to form such stereotypes when the image or thought of that group reappears. A common stereotype, for example, is that cowboys ride around on horseback all day and are as manly as could be. Gretel Ehrlich, author of The Solace of Open Spaces, explains why cowboys are seen this way. Ehrlich states, “If he’s gruff, handsome, and physically fit on the outside, he’s androgynous at the core” (4) meaning that cowboys are manly and physically strong, but can also be softhearted on the inside. Cowboys are not only horse riders and hard workers, but nurturers and caregivers. These, and other feminine traits, are rarely given much …show more content…
People view this group as always being dependent upon others and even upon the government. People believe these individuals cannot perform even the simplest of tasks, like going to the restroom or taking a shower on their own. Many have very low expectations of these individuals because they are “special”. Whether an individual was born an amputee or has suffered a tragedy, people assume that this person deserves to be pitied or to be treated differently. These individuals are frequently stared at and asked questions. People are quick to assume that because these individuals are physically disabled, they must also be mentally disabled. It is commonly believed that because these individuals receive government aid, that they must be taking advantage of