Activity in brief
Gender Roles uses guided reflection, discussion, and interactive activities to explore gender stereotypes, roles, and norms shaping participants’ identities and behaviors. Participants critically examine their perceptions of gender, identify stereotypes in everyday contexts, and engage in activities designed to challenge and rethink these norms. Afterwards, they reflect on ways to actively push boundaries, envisioning and creating possibilities for more inclusive and diverse gender expressions. This reflective and interactive approach fosters critical thinking and increased awareness of gender roles and expectations.
Detailed instructions
Preparation (5 minutes)
- Set up two or three separate spaces, each with a flipchart labeled clearly: “Act Like a Lady/Girl”, “Act Like a Man/Boy”, and optionally, “Act Like a Gender Diverse/Non-binary Person”.
- Provide sticky notes and writing tools for participants.
Introduction (5 minutes)
- Briefly introduce the purpose: to explore gender stereotypes and societal expectations associated with different genders.
- Divide participants into mixed-gender groups, placing each group in one of the designated areas.
Group Reflection & Sticky Notes (10–15 minutes)
- Guide participants through categories (e.g., colors, education, careers, toys, care roles, hobbies).
- Participants individually reflect with closed eyes, noting their associations for each gender on sticky notes.
- Participants then attach these notes onto their group’s flipchart.
Group Presentation (10–15 minutes)
- Reunite all groups and have each group present their findings, highlighting stereotypes and expectations associated with each gender.
- Encourage brief enactments or demonstrations of these stereotypes to enhance understanding.
Discussion & Reflection (15–20 minutes)
- Facilitate a discussion around personal experiences with gender expectations, stereotypes, and their impacts.
- Prompt participants with questions about gender norms related to emotions, career paths, societal pressures, and assumptions.
Conclusion (5 minutes)
- Summarize key points discussed, encouraging final reflections and emphasizing the importance of challenging and rethinking gender norms for greater inclusivity.
Practical details
Duration
60 – 70 minutes rough guidance, allow for enough time to reflect.
Sapce requirements
Both indoors and outdoors are suitable. Have two separate spaces for group discussions available.
For whom
This activity is suitable for small groups of children age 14 and above and adults and it applies to generic ballanced audiences (socio-economic status, origin, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation). Larger groups should be split into smaller subgroups.
Resources needed
Materials
- Flipcharts, markers, sticky notes, and writing tools. Prepare at least two separate spaces for different groups.
Facilitators
- Provide as many facilitators as there are groups, ideally two or three
Recommended Feedback tools
Embed this activity in a before-and-after session of body mapping or run a simple flashlight feedback at the end of it. A brief feedback session is better than none.
Consider your participants
Sensitive Materials: Choose discussion topics and prompts thoughtfully, avoiding content that may cause unnecessary discomfort. Ensure a safe environment free of judgmental attitudes or extremist viewpoints. Including stakeholders such as decision-makers, media representatives, or employers can enrich the discussion. Be mindful of legal contexts regarding gender discussions, especially with minors, in countries experiencing restrictive approaches or human rights backlash.
Inclusivity and Access: Arrange spaces to accommodate physical accessibility and ensure an atmosphere of trust, confidentiality, and emotional safety.
Adaptability: Structure the activity flexibly to allow comfortable participation at varying speeds and ensure engagement for all participants.
Keep the conversation going
Encourage Questions: Regularly pause to ensure clarity and understanding, inviting participants to voice any confusion or concerns.
Invite Personal Stories: Prompt participants to share personal reflections or experiences to foster deeper engagement and mutual understanding.
Keep It Moving: Maintain participant engagement through varied activities, short breaks, or task rotations when necessary.
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Please note that this activity is provided for personal educational, informational and convenience purposes only, is general in nature and is not intended as a substitute for professional, legal, or medical advice.