Social Identities,

Bias, and
Stereotypes
This presentation explores the multifaceted nature of social identities,
examining how they shape our perceptions of ourselves and others.
We'll delve into the interplay of various social factors and the
significance of embracing diversity and inclusion.

by Erin Staples
Understanding the
Concept of Identity
Read the article and view the videos on this page:
https://criticalmediaproject.org/why-identity-matter
s/

Self-Perception Social Construction

Identity is how we see Identity is not innate; it's
ourselves, our beliefs, influenced by
values, and experiences interactions with others,
shaping this perception. social structures, and
cultural norms.

Fluid and Evolving

Identity is dynamic, constantly shifting and changing as
we grow and encounter new experiences.
Understanding Social
Identities
Social identities are multifaceted and intersect, forming a complex
tapestry of our individual and collective selves. They include factors
like race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic
status.

Individual Identity
The unique characteristics that make us who we are, such as our
personality, values, and beliefs.

Social Identity
The groups we belong to, shaping our experiences and
perspectives.

Collective Identity
A sense of shared belonging and purpose within a group.
The Role of Social Factors
in Identity Formation
Family and Upbringing
Early family dynamics, values, and beliefs play a significant role
in shaping our initial sense of self.

Community and Culture

The social environment, cultural norms, and shared experiences
within communities influence our understanding of who we are.

Education and Media

Formal education and exposure to media can expose us to
different perspectives and ideas, contributing to our evolving
identity.
Exploring Race and Ethnicity as
Social
Race
Identities
Ethnicity Impact of Social Identity

A social construct based on Shared cultural heritage, language, Race and ethnicity significantly
perceived physical characteristics, traditions, and beliefs, often tied to influence experiences, opportunities,
often associated with cultural and a specific geographic region or and perceptions within society.
historical factors. ancestry.
Disability and Ability as
Social Identities
1 Disability as a 2 The Social Model
Social Construct of Disability
Disability is not simply a Focuses on removing
medical condition but also barriers and creating equal
shaped by societal opportunities for people
attitudes, accessibility, and with disabilities to fully
inclusivity. participate in society.

3 Embracing Diversity
Recognizing the diverse experiences and perspectives of
individuals with disabilities is crucial for building an inclusive
society.
Socioeconomic Status and
Class Identity

Income and Wealth Occupation and Education

The amount of money individuals or The type of work individuals engage in
households earn and possess, and their educational attainment,
influencing their access to resources shaping their social standing and
and opportunities. economic prospects.

Social Capital Power and Influence

The networks of relationships, The level of control and influence
connections, and support systems individuals have within society, often
individuals have access to, influencing tied to their economic resources and
their social and economic mobility. social connections.
Gender
Identity
and
Expression
This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-NC

Gender Identity Gender Expression Diversity of Experiences

A person's deeply held sense How a person chooses to Gender identity and
of their gender, which may express their gender through expression encompass a wide
align with, differ from, or fall outward appearance, spectrum of experiences,
outside of traditional gender behavior, and mannerisms, recognizing the individuality
categories. which may or may not align and fluidity of human identity.
with their gender identity.
 Sexuality and Sexual
Orientation
Sexual Orientation - A person's enduring physical,
romantic, and/or emotional attraction to others.

Heterosexuality - Attraction to individuals of the opposite gender.

Homosexuality - Attraction to individuals of the same gender.

Bisexuality - Attraction to individuals of more than one gender.

Asexuality - Lack of sexual attraction to others.

Pansexuality – Attracted to individuals of multiple genders.

This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-NC
Challenging Gender
Stereotypes
Challenging gender stereotypes requires a multi-faceted approach, involving education,
awareness, and advocacy. Individuals, organizations, and institutions can play a role in promoting
gender equality and breaking down harmful stereotypes.

Open Dialogue Positive Role Models

Engaging in open and Highlighting diverse and
honest discussions about inclusive role models in
gender stereotypes, their various fields can challenge
impact, and how to address traditional stereotypes and
them can raise awareness inspire individuals to pursue
and promote their passions.
understanding.

Media Literacy Policy Changes

Critically evaluating media Implementing policies that
representations of gender promote gender equality in
roles and questioning education, employment,
stereotypes can help and social programs can
individuals develop a more create a more equitable
informed and nuanced society for all individuals.
understanding of gender.
Intersectionality and Overlapping
Identities
Multidimensional
(Watch videos below) Privilege and Oppression
Understanding Complex
People hold multiple Intersectionality highlights Recognizing the interplay
identities that interact and how different identities can of identities is crucial for
influence one another, lead to varying levels of fostering empathy and
creatig a unique and privilege or oppression, promoting social justice.
complex individual depending on societal
experience. structures.
Intersectionality
Intersectionality recognizes that people's experiences are shaped by
multiple identities, including gender, race, ethnicity, class, sexual
orientation, and ability.m Stereotypes about women often intersect
with other forms of oppression, leading to compounded discrimination
and marginalization.

Race
Women of color often face unique stereotypes that intersect
with racism, sexism, and other forms of prejudice.

Socioeconomic Status
Women from low-income backgrounds face additional
challenges, including poverty, limited access to education,
and discrimination in employment.

Sexual Orientation
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender women often face
specific stereotypes and discrimination based on their
sexual orientation or gender identity.

Disability
Women with disabilities face additional challenges, including
prejudice, accessibility barriers, and limited opportunities for
employment and education.
Systems of Oppression – The 4
I’s
•Oppression (the “ism’s”) happens at all
levels, reinforced by societal norms,
institutional biases, interpersonal interactions
and individual beliefs.

• Individual — feelings, beliefs, values.

• Interpersonal — actions, behaviors and
language.
• Institutional — legal system, education
system, public policy, hiring practices, media
images.
• Internalized privilege – A component of
oppression that occurs when people who
benefit from systems of oppression accept
false assumptions about oppressed
Agent vs Target
Agent: Members of dominant social groups privileged by birth or
acquisition who knowingly or unknowingly exploit and reap unfair
advantage over members of the target groups. An agent group has
the power to define and name reality, and determine what is normal,
real and correct.

Target: Members of social identity groups who are discriminated

against, marginalized, disenfranchised, oppressed, exploited by an
oppressor and oppressor’s system of institutions without identity
apart from the target group, and compartmentalized in defined roles.

Oppression: The key features of oppression are:

• Differential and unequal treatment is institutionalized and
systematic.
• Psychological colonization of the target group occurs through
socializing the oppressed to internalize their oppressed condition.
• The target group’s culture, language and history is misrepresented,
discounted or eradicated, and the dominant group culture is
imposed.
Cognitive Biases and
Stereotyping
Cognitive biases are mental shortcuts that can lead to inaccurate judgments. They can contribute to stereotyping
by influencing our perceptions and decision-making.

Confirmation Bias Availability Heuristic In-Group Bias

We tend to seek out information We rely on easily accessible We favor members of our own
that confirms our existing beliefs, information, even if it's not group, often attributing positive
ignoring contradictory evidence. representative of the larger traits to them and negative ones
picture. to out-groups.
Implicit Bias and
Unconscious Prejudice
– Read the article here. You do not have to take the test.

Implicit bias refers to unconscious attitudes and beliefs that can

influence our behavior, even if we don't consciously endorse them.
These biases are often rooted in societal conditioning and can lead
to unintentional discrimination.

Early Experiences
Our upbringing and cultural influences shape our
subconscious biases.

Social Cues
We pick up on implicit messages from the media, social
interactions, and our environment.

Cognitive Processes This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY

Implicit biases affect our perception, judgment, and

decision-making.
The Impact of Stereotypes
on Individuals
Stereotypes can have a significant impact on individuals, leading
to discrimination, prejudice, and negative self-perceptions. They
can limit opportunities, create barriers to success, and damage
self-esteem.
Limited Opportunities Prejudice and Discrimination
Stereotypes can create Individuals may be treated
barriers to education, unfairly based on their
employment, and social perceived group
advancement. membership.

Negative Self-Perception
Internalizing stereotypes can lead to feelings of inferiority and self-doubt.
Recognizing and Challenging
Stereotypes
Becoming aware of stereotypes is the first step towards challenging them. Critical
thinking, empathy, and open communication are essential for dismantling harmful
generalizations.

Identify Stereotypes Pay attention to your own

thoughts, feelings, and
actions.
Challenge Assumptions Question the validity of
stereotypes and seek out
diverse perspectives.

Emphasize Individuality Recognize that each

person is unique and
should be judged on their
own merits.
Strategies for Reducing
Bias and Promoting
Inclusion
Addressing bias requires a multi-faceted approach that includes education,
awareness-raising, and systemic change. By promoting diversity and
inclusion, we can create a more equitable and just society.

Educate Yourself Open Dialogue

Learn about different cultures and Engage in respectful conversations
perspectives. about bias and prejudice.

Advocate for Equality Empathy and Compassion

Support initiatives that promote Cultivate understanding and respect
diversity and inclusion. for all individuals.
Conclusion: Embracing
Diversity and Inclusion
Understanding and appreciating the complexities of social identities is
crucial for building a just and equitable society. By embracing
diversity, fostering inclusion, and challenging prejudice, we can
create a world where everyone feels valued and respected for who
they are.