Stereotypes
Are we always able to recognise (and deny) them?
A stereotype is a set idea or preconceived notion about what a group of people or something is like. How many times do we apply stereotypes without even noticing it? We very often associate country of origin with some specific features, traditions or food, but also way of thinking, and acting.
Using stereotypes is often associated to placing people to boxes or categories. This does not allow to observe the complexity of an individual as a whole, but rather oversimplifies the reality. The same happens when it is believed that all people from a specific country will act in a specific way based on their origin: Will Germans always be on time for a meeting?
But, do ALL British people have tea at 5 pm? Do ALL Italians play mandolin?
You might have sensed that the topic is much more complex than expected. However, the use of stereotypes might be very dangerous. Let’s think about preparing for a meeting in a foreign country and look for information on how to behave in a certain country. How dangerous might it be especially if the expectations do not coincide with the reality? Would we be able to change our communications and become flexible if the expectations do not meet the reality?
Stereotypes could be tackled in many ways — one of these is considering culture in its complexity and every individual as different based on their experience, education, gender, background, etc.
Placing people in categories is part of the human nature and it is often done without even realising. However, it is imperative to observe the reality and individuals in their complexity, being able to overcome and go beyond stereotypes. In order to do so, flexibility, cultural sensitiveness and open-mindedness are key in this globalised world.
