- Explore societal expectations placed on oneself based on their gender identity
- Discuss ways to identify and challenge these gender roles & stereotypes and how to protect one’s mental health despite these expectations
- Play the “Gender Roles & Stereotypes” short clip (~2 mins) by AMAZE Org
- Distribute index cards and pens/pencils to students. Invite them to write down expectations that they feel are placed on them because of their gender identity. Think broadly on these areas:
- Personality
- Dress & attire
- Hobbies
- Career paths
- The way one shows emotions
- Body image
- Self-concept
- Interactions with others
- … and more
- Underneath these expectations, encourage them to write how they feel about these expectations.
- Collect the anonymous cards and read them aloud or have other students read them. (If anyone is uncomfortable having their card read aloud, they can indicate that on their card or choose not to hand it in).
- After cards are read aloud, open up the floor for discussion.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Being your authentic self (if safe to do so) and being accepted as that version of yourself is one of the best ways to protect your mental health.
- What was your thought/feeling/reaction to the video?
- How did it make you feel to hear all of these different expectations?
- Were there any expectations that surprised you? Were there any you could relate to?
- Did your feelings about the gender expectations differ based on whether the expectation is congruent with who you are or if you find yourself straying outside of the expectation?
- How can we proudly (and safely) be our authentic selves in spite of these societal expectations? And how can we take care of our mental health while doing so?
Tips for Facilitating Open & Respectful Conversations about Gender Identity:
- Focus on modeling good behaviors. Be curious, open, and practice active listening.
- Avoid asking students to speak on behalf of their entire identity group.
- If things get heated, pause the conversation and give students a few minutes to process their thoughts and feelings on paper.
- If an offensive statement has been made,
- acknowledge the emotions in the room,
- acknowledge any harms or offense that some might be feeling
- validate & humanize those who are affected
- ask questions and/or reframe the conversation
- encourage students to increase awareness on the topic by recommending further readings
Check out this website for information on how gender identity and gender expression can be fluid and ever changing