Challenging stereotypes
Aim: To understand that it is possible to use accurate information to challenge the stereotypes people use. You will need: Slips of paper with stereotypes written on(prepared by group leader), container, music (optional). Duration: 20 minutes
Even though it is easy to fall into the habit of using stereotypes to label people, there are ways to reduce stereotypes and combat prejudice. One way is to check our own thinking and to be careful of jumping to conclusions based on poor information. Another way is to politely challenge stereotypes when we hear them by offering evidence that the stereotype is false.
The group leader will need to prepare several pieces of paper with common stereotypes written on them, then fold them up. Use stereotypes that are relevant to your group (e.g. teenagers are all lazy, girls can't play football, boys are better than girls at maths) The aim will be for the group to challenge each stereotype, so the leader should think of some ideas to suggest for each one.
In the game, participants should pass around a bowl containing the folded slips of paper. You could play music and stop it for each turn, or everyone could sing while the bowl is passed around, and someone with their eyes shut could call out 'stop'. The person with the bowl should take out a piece of paper and read out the stereotype. The person to their right should then give a reason why that stereotype is not true e.g. 'All teenagers are lazy' - Reply: 'It is not true that teenagers are all lazy. My sister and I help my elderly neighbour with his gardening every weekend.' Other people in the group can then offer additional suggestions if they can think of any. Keep going until all the slips are used up.
By thinking about ways to respond to stereotypes, you will be more prepared to challenge them when you hear other people using stereotypes.