You can take an IAT, created by Harvard University, on any number of topics including sexuality, religion, and race. These tests can be found online. [3] X Research source
When dealing with internalized stereotypes, ask yourself questions like “Why do I feel this way?” and “Where does this belief come from?” You can also challenge these stereotypes by asking yourself if you’d be comfortable teaching them to someone else. Acknowledge your own biases and prejudices, and actively replace them with more reasonable alternatives. [5] X Trustworthy Source American Psychological Association Leading scientific and professional organization of licensed psychologists Go to source For example, if you think something stereotypical about a certain gender, religion, culture or race (i. e. blondes are dumb, females are moody, ), remind yourself that this is a bias against that group and that you are over-generalizing.
Dealing with prejudice and discrimination can lead to low self-esteem and depression as well as reductions in adequate health care, housing, education, and employment. [7] X Research source www. researchgate. net/profile/Brenda_Major/publication/8516959_Group_identification_moderates_emotional_responses_to_perceived_prejudice/links/00b7d52c1b8a237737000000. pdf Being in a situation where someone is prejudiced against you can lead to a decrease in your self-control. [8] X Research source www. researchgate. net/profile/Michael_Inzlicht/publication/7270831_Stigma_as_ego_depletion_how_being_the_target_of_prejudice_affects_self-control/links/0912f506c683f08fb3000000. pdf Remind yourself that if you have biases against others they may lead to dire consequences for those individuals.
Identify the possible ways you stigmatize yourself and actively attempt to change these beliefs. For example, instead of thinking, “I’m crazy because I have a diagnosis,” you can change this to, “Mental illnesses are normal and a large amount of the population has them. This does not mean I am crazy. ”
One way to experience diversity it to travel to another country, or even town. Every small city has its own culture including popular foods, traditions, and activities. For example, people in the city may have different experiences than people in the country – simply because of the environment. It’s important for people to be curious and look for both the similarities and differences that we have with other people. Similarities create opportunities for compassion, love, and understanding, while differences make us separate individuals. Remember—each and every individual has their own story, their own background, their own parents, and their own sets of ideals and morals.
Even looking at pictures or reading about diverse people you admire can be helpful tin reducing any bias you have toward a group they are a member of (racial, ethnic, cultural, religious, sexual identity, etc. ). Try reading a magazine or book that is written by someone different from you.
One way to avoid justifying stereotypes is to disagree with people when they make a stereotypical comment. An example could be if your friend says, “All Asians are terrible drivers. ” This is obviously a negative stereotype, and can lead to prejudice if this person actually believes it is true. You can counter your friend’s stereotype by gently confronting him and saying something like, “That’s a negative stereotype. You have to take into account different cultures and traditions. ”
Know who you are and accept yourself regardless of what you believe others think about you. [14] X Research source Identify who you can trust with your personal information and be open around these individuals.
Any kind of group will do, but it will be especially helpful if you join a group that matches your uniqueness (such as a Women’s group, LGBT group [Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender], African American group, Religion-based group, etc. ). This can help you be emotionally resilient (less angry or depressed and more in control) in the face of prejudice. [19] X Research source www. researchgate. net/profile/Brenda_Major/publication/8516959_Group_identification_moderates_emotional_responses_to_perceived_prejudice/links/00b7d52c1b8a237737000000. pdf
Talk with your close family or friends about the injustice you have experienced.
Don’t expect to be rejected. [19] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Try to look at each situation and interaction as a new experience. Expecting that others with be prejudiced against you can become a prejudice in itself. Try not to generalize and label others as a certain way (including as prejudiced, judgmental, racist, etc. ). Remember that if you pre-judge people and expect them to be prejudiced, then you may be the one with the bias.
Express yourself through: art, writing, dance, music, acting, or anything else that is creative.
One option is to become an advocate or volunteer at an organization which aims to reduce prejudice and discrimination. If you can’t volunteer for an organization, you can donate money or even supplies. Many homeless shelters will accept canned food, clothing, and other items.
