Girls and Boys or instead of Men and Women try Women and Men.Stereotypes are another area of the English language that has striking inequalities. They reflect popular images of womens and mens language, perpetuate through proverbs, jokes, journalism, literature, and even by serious language scholars. One of the striking features of these stereotypes is the way they rarely favour women, who are consistently portrayed as chatterboxes, endless gossips or strident nags patiently endured or kept in check by strong and silent men (Graddol, 1991.) Stereotyping is biased and often inaccurate assumptions about people. For instance, Lecturers and their wives are invited to attend try Lecturers and their partners are invited to attend. This example assumes that all lecturers are male, heterosexual and married. The reality may be that the lecturer is female, homosexual, single, cohabiting or living apart from a partner. Sex-role stereotyping is assuming that certain traits, ways of behaving, interacting with others, and working are naturally associated with each sex. It is seen as inappropriate for one sex to act in a manner associated with the other sex. Our language reflexes our notions of appropriate behavior for each sex. However, if we are to represent accurately the reality and diversity of peoples lives we need to move away from narrow and limiting behavior models for people. For instance She is a tomboy try Shes an adventurous/daring girl instead of Hes a sissy try Hes a sensitive/caring boy. Sex-linked adjectives, such as feminine, masculine, manly, womanly, arise from stereotyped notions about male traits (strength, assertion, aggression) and female traits (passive, gentleness, concern). They associate with one sex attributes, which are shared by all people. Examples are Shes very masculine use She is a strong/assertive woman instead of What is needed is the feminine touch use What is needed is a caring/considerate attitude...
