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Sexism is a term you've probably heard, but what does it really mean, and how does it affect people in their everyday lives? For teenagers, understanding sexism is crucial for recognising inequality and working towards a more inclusive society. Here are 10 things you've always wanted to know about sexism but might have been too afraid to ask.

1. What Is Sexism?

Sexism refers to prejudice, discrimination, or stereotyping based on someone's sex or gender. It often involves treating one gender as superior to another, leading to unequal opportunities or unfair treatment. While sexism can affect anyone, it disproportionately impacts women and girls.

2. What Are Examples of Sexism?

Sexism can take many forms, including:

• Stereotypes: Assuming girls aren't good at science or boys shouldn't cry.
• Pay inequality: Women being paid less than men for the same work.
• Objectification: Treating people, especially women, as objects rather than individuals.
• Exclusion: Leaving someone out of activities or opportunities because of their gender.

Sexism can be subtle or overt, but it always undermines equality and fairness.

3. Why Does Sexism Happen?

Sexism is rooted in cultural, social, and historical norms that have perpetuated gender inequality. For centuries, societies have assigned rigid roles to men and women, limiting their opportunities and reinforcing stereotypes. Media, education, and outdated traditions often contribute to these biases, even today.

4. How Does Sexism Affect Young People?

Sexism can have a profound impact on teenagers, shaping their self-esteem, ambitions, and relationships. Common effects include:

• Girls may feel discouraged from pursuing careers in male-dominated fields.
• Boys may struggle with expressing emotions due to expectations of "toughness."
• Young people may internalise stereotypes, limiting their potential.

Addressing sexism helps create a supportive environment where everyone can thrive.

5. What Is Everyday Sexism?

Everyday sexism refers to subtle, often unnoticed forms of gender discrimination. Examples include:

• Catcalling or inappropriate comments about appearance.
• Interrupting women more often than men in conversations.
• Assuming leadership roles are better suited for men.

Though these incidents may seem minor, they contribute to a culture of inequality.

6. What Is Intersectionality?

Intersectionality is the idea that people experience discrimination differently based on overlapping aspects of their identity, such as race, class, and gender. For example, a Black woman may face both racism and sexism simultaneously, which can amplify the challenges she faces. Recognising intersectionality is key to addressing all forms of inequality effectively.

7. Real-Life Impact: A Teen's Story

Chloe, a 15-year-old from Birmingham, shared her experience: "When I told my teacher I wanted to join the robotics club, he said, "Are you sure? That's usually for the boys.' It made me feel like I didn't belong. But my mum encouraged me to join anyway, and now I love it." Chloe's story highlights how subtle comments can discourage young people but also how support can make a big difference.

8. How Can You Challenge Sexism?

Challenging sexism starts with recognising it and speaking up. Here are some strategies:

• Call it out: If you see or hear something sexist, address it calmly and respectfully.
• Support others: Stand up for friends or classmates who are affected by sexism.
• Educate yourself: Learn about gender equality and challenge your own biases.
• Be a role model: Treat everyone with respect and fairness, regardless of gender.

Small actions can lead to big changes in attitudes and behaviours.

9. How Can Boys Be Allies Against Sexism?

Boys and men have an important role in challenging sexism. Here's how they can help:

• Listen: Understand the experiences of women and girls without dismissing them.
• Challenge stereotypes: Question traditional gender roles and encourage others to do the same.
• Speak up: Use your voice to call out sexist behaviour, even if it's uncomfortable.

Gender equality benefits everyone, so it's in everyone's interest to work toward it.

10. What Does Gender Equality Look Like?

Gender equality means everyone has the same rights, opportunities, and respect, regardless of their gender. It includes:

• Equal pay for equal work.
• Representation of all genders in leadership roles.
• Freedom from stereotypes and discrimination.

Achieving gender equality requires effort from individuals, communities, and institutions.

Conclusion

Sexism is a pervasive issue, but by understanding its roots and effects, we can work to challenge it in our daily lives. Whether it's calling out inappropriate behaviour, supporting others, or questioning stereotypes, every action contributes to creating a fairer, more inclusive world. Remember, small steps can lead to big changes, and together, we can build a future where everyone is treated equally and with respect.

How are you feeling?

It is really important that when we need help, we feel able to ask for it. This could be speaking to a parent, a close friend, a teacher or someone else you trust. Sometimes it can be really hard to share our feelings with other people but if we are feeling low or don't know where to turn, sharing with others is really important. Teachers will always take you seriously and listen to your problems in confidence if you approach them for help. Likewise, parents, siblings or friends will help you if you reach out to them.

If you feel like you can't speak to anyone you know, there are people and organisations that can help support you:

• Childline - Call them on 0800 1111 any time of the day or night, every day of the week
• NSPCC - Call them on 0808 800 5000 between 10am and 4pm Monday to Friday or email them on help@NSPCC.org.uk
• The Samaritans – Call them on 116 123 any time of the day or night, every day of the week
• SANE – Call 0300 304 7000 for support (4:30pm - 10:30pm every day)
• Mind – Call 0300 123 3393 (9:00am - 6:00pm Monday to Friday)

*Sometimes we will use real life examples in our articles to aid understanding. When we do, names and ages will be changed.