Gender-specific stereotypes define what is the societal norm and standard. Therefore, they can limit opportunities and interests and keep children from developing certain skills. During professional orientation, they lead to girls often choosing care and service sectors with less pay, while boys seem more inclined towards the technical sector. This sector specific segregation and worse salary leads to a lower income and higher risk of poverty for women during their life.
According to a study by the University of Madrid from February 2022 (Source), kids perceive gender stereotypes from as early as 4 years old in their environment. Thus, they are adapting to gender stereotypical behaviour and learning opportunities, as they do not see other examples. Often interests are seen as individual choices, even though they are shaped by socialisation, and what is desired and what is shunned by society. Find out more in our next post.