Humans, by nature, categorized people into different groups, some based on the physical anatomy, some based on behaviors, others based on color or religion, the list is endless. By categorizing humans into groups, it gives the advantage of power to one or more of the groups, depending on the current situation. This power breeds stereotypes. Once could argue that stereotypes exist because of conspiracies to make them exist. What easier way to stay at the top of a particular social ladder, than to provide misinformation about an inability about a group of people. After all, a stereotype is an inaccurate assessment, made from faulty information about a particular group of people.

Intelligence is the key to this battle. It does not require a doctorate degree to understand stereotypes and human nature. To understand stereotypes, one must accept that everything they hear or see may not be true. One must be able to question these things based on personal experiences and investigation. The battle to end stereotypes must begin with the expansion of knowledge in a particular area which propagates a stereotype.

Stereotypes can only be eliminated in the mind of the individual willing to eliminate the stereotype. Based on the way the human brain works, what one individual learns about a situation, requiring the individual to change their opinion and rid the stereotype from their mind, does not necessarily work on another person. The struggle for existence, and the struggle for power will both provide barriers from everyone accepting a particular situation as a stereotype. There will always be those who continue to feed misinformation to others to maintain those stereotypes in order to maintain power, ultimately, maintaining survival.

So, what is the answer to ending gender stereotypes. The answer lies within one’s self. You can end stereotypical behaviors for yourself, you can influence those in your “sphere” to consider ending stereotypical behaviors, but truly, you can only change yourself. Considering the fact that the possibility of everyone changing the same behavior is pretty slim, one should focus on their own behaviors, attitudes and beliefs and be a positive influence which may assist in eliminating stereotypical beliefs in another. To fall on your sword trying to change others though, may be a grave mistake. It is up to one’s self to allow others to be equal, to eliminate those perceptions based on faulty and inaccurate information, and rid stereotypes from within.