Defining and Breaking Down Stereotypes

Mentor Guide Week 3The Vira I. Heinz Program for Women in Global Leadership

Learning Objectives

• Explore differences between the definitions of a stereotype. If you agree with one definition more than another, explain why, and encourage your mentee to do the same

• Discuss how stereotypes can be harmfulIf the conversation does not happen naturally, discuss the example provided(Women and STEM fields)

• Understand the cycle of a stereotype

- You may want to discuss whether or not you agree with the diagram

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Facilitation Tips

• Facilitate a discussion centered around your experiences with stereotypes. Try to use an example from your summer study abroad experience

• Explain that the discussion is private and will not be shared with others

• Be aware of the comfort level of your mentee• Create a comfortable and open environment by meeting in a private or semi-

private space. Remember that effective discussions can take place in relaxed atmospheres

• If your mentee seems comfortable, ask follow-up questions

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Take Aways

Encourage your mentee to continue to brainstorm ways to challenge stereotypes. Suggestions for challenging stereotypes:

• Continue to educate yourself

• Be aware of the language you use to describe other people

• Encourage people to share honestly about who they are

• When stereotyping is witnessed, try to address the action and not

the person doing the stereotyping

The Vira I. Heinz Program for Women in Global Leadership

Resources• Chivis, D. (23 March, 2010). Stereotypes bias hurt women in math and

science. AOL News, Retrieved from, http://www.aolnews.com/2010/03/23/report-stereotypes-bias-hurt-women-in-math-and-science/

• DuBois. B. & Miley, K, (2005). Social work: An empowering profession. Pearson Education: Boston, MA

• Heatherton, T. F., Kleck, R. E., Hebl, M. R., & Hull, J. G. (2000). The Social Psychology of Stigma,

Guilford Press: New York, New York• Kubik, J. & Kubik. M. (2010). Why study stereotypes. Rutgers University,

Retrieved from, http://gc2000.rutgers.edu/GC2000/MODULES/STEREOTYPES/default.htm

• Stoller, F.L., (2010). Civic Education, US Department of State: Washington, D.C.

• Test Yourself for Hidden Bias (2010). Southern Poverty Law Center. Retrieved from,

http://www.tolerance.org/activity/test-yourself-hidden-bias

The Vira I. Heinz Program for Women in Global Leadership