It’s often the first question we’re asked when we meet someone new: “What do you do?” And while we may do any number of things in our daily lives, from engaging in hobbies to caring for loved ones, those aren’t the answers the other person is looking for. Instead, we’re expected to answer the broad,… read more
To Dye or Not to Dye? Dr. Julie Lopez on the Difficulties and Joys of Going Gray
Aging men and women, particularly the latter, have long felt pressured to hide their gray hair. In the 1930’s, Jean Harlow bleached her hair because she felt that her reputation as a platinum blonde was essential to her career. During World War II, Clairol ran ads referring to gray hair as a “heartless dictator,” claiming… read more
The Psychological Effects of Stereotyping: A Study Through the Lens of Asexuality
Researchers have a number of theories about why we engage in the act of stereotyping. Some believe it developed as a way to promote group identity and strengthen the social systems that allow us to survive. Others believe it’s simply a matter of ease, as our brains process categorized information more efficiently.
Yet for every evolutionary “pro” that comes with stereotyping, there are several obvious cons. In addition to popularizing untrue (and often insulting) myths about large and diverse groups of people, stereotyping can have devastating psychological effects on the people being categorized.
Wellness Wednesday: Confidence with Lea Sloan
Confidence “The circulation of confidence is better than the circulation of money.” – James Madison Confidence is a powerful tool. It gives us the courage to challenge ourselves, and helps us accept and appreciate who we are. Yet all too often, we find that our confidence is lacking. We begin to question our abilities, our… read more
