Thematic area 2: Know about job Market
De – stereotyping job titles
Theoretical background:
From a psychological standpoint a stereotype can be defined as “the association of a so-
cial group concept with one or more ... attribute concepts” and involves the interaction of
social knowledge with the concept of self.^1 There is no unified theory of stereotyping upon
which psychologists agree. Feminist theory addresses the negative stereotyping of women
in terms of employment, representation in the media and other areas. Legislation in many
European countries is designed to expand job opportunities for women but this can be
hindered by a lack of aspiration among girls caused by internalising stereotypes related to
particular occupations. This exercise attempts to expose some of these fallacies.
Target group:
Students aged 14 – 19
exercise description:
Group discussion of stereotypes in general, followed by completion of a worksheet which
challenges some stereotypical job titles.
Pedagogical aim:
To make students more aware and critical of stereotypes in society and to shift the thinking
of both boys and girls about what careers are open to them.
Time: 30 – 45 minutes
resources needed: Photocopier
This exercise has been kindly donated by Connexions, Birmingham & Solihull.
1 Greenwald, A.G. et al A Unified Theory of Implicit Attitudes, Stereotypes, Self-Esteem and
Self-Concept Psychological Review 2002 Vol. 109, 1, p.5