Challenging Stereotypes Reflection (2021)
Laura Toussaint
Laura Toussaint’s Sociology 101 Assignment – Challenging Stereotypes Reflection.
Please note you may do this assignment as a paper OR as a PowerPoint presentation.
Guidelines: Individual Only: This reflection provides a series of exercises exploring the multiple dimensions of identities. It addresses the relationships between our desires to self-define our identities and the social constructions that label us regardless of how we define ourselves, as well as stimulates thinking about the ways we can eliminate stereotypes and discrimination.
Instructions: Your grade is based on how thoroughly you address each of the following components of this assignment outlined below and adherence to the stated requirements, such as minimum word or slide count. Please read each part carefully, clearly label each part, and fully answer all questions embedded in each part.
Part 1: Read the transcript or watch this (captioned-option) TED talk “The Danger of a Single Story” and answer the following questions:
- What stereotypes (single stories) were mentioned in the video?
- What are the dangers of stereotypes (single stories)?
- What are any other important points you obtained from the talk?
Part 2: Imagine your name in the center of a large circle. Then imagine important aspects of your identity in each of several satellite circles surrounding your name — an identifier or descriptor that you feel is important in defining you. This can include anything and you can imagine as many aspects as you like. A few of the many possibilities of examples might be female, mother, father, athlete, educator, Taoist, scientist, or any descriptor with which you identify. Please note you do not have to draw a circle graphic in your response, just answer the questions below.
- Share a story about a time you were especially proud to identify with one of the descriptors you used above.
- Share a story about a time it was especially painful to be identified with one of your identifiers or descriptors.
- Name a stereotype associated with one of the groups with which you identify that is not consistent with who you are, then write it as a sentence that applies to you using the following template:
I am (a/an) _____________________ but I am NOT (a/an)_____________________.
- Where do stereotypes come from?
- How did it feel to be able to stand up and challenge your stereotype?
- How can we create that space for others to challenge the stereotypes about them?
- Citing supporting information from any of your course material such as your textbook or other resources provided such as the “Systemic Racism and Anti-racist Resources” or “Definitions and Resources-Social Identity, Intersectionality, Discrimination” file (in the “start here-important documents module), discuss the relationship between stereotypes and discrimination. Please cite the name of the file or section in the textbook in which you found this information.
- What are s