How to Reduce Stereotyping

Stereotyping has a powerful impact on our day-to-day lives. Without even realizing it, stereotypes (which are the generalizations we have about the members of a particular group – see my post, The Barriers to Effective Multicultural Communication #1: Stereotyping, for more information) can negatively impact our interactions with others. They can also cause us to act in unintentionally biased ways. Fortunately, there are four specific steps each of us can take to reduce the extent to which we stereotype:

1. Identify your stereotypes.
2. Identify the cause of your stereotypes.
3. Clarify how your stereotypes impact your interactions with others.
4. Identify at least one step you will take to reduce your stereotyping.

I will discuss each step in detail in upcoming posts.

Next Post: May 19, 2014 – How to Reduce Stereotyping: Tip #1