Gender stereotypes are simplistic and over-generalised beliefs and attitudes about the differences between women and men, their characters, characteristics, suitable roles, occupations, behaviour, appearance, etc. that are deeply rooted in a culture and a certain period of time.
Prevailing gender stereotypes guide women and men to choose certain life strategies, behaviours and relationships with others, and reflect and cause the different statuses of the sexes in society. Gender stereotypes often persist even when statistics show that the actual situation has already changed. For example, the stereotype of women as a homemaker persists even in countries where most women have been working full-time for decades.
See also Gender stereotypes hide individuality and limit choice
If you feel that you’ve been treated unequally, please contact the Equality Commissioner by e-mail at avaldus@volinik.ee or telephone +372 626 9059. The anonymity of the person is guaranteed when contacting the Commissioner.
