Gender stereotypes tend to appear as dichotomies that condition the free election of women and girls, not only as they see that they are only presented with one valid option, but that their access is impaired for a whole array of possibilities that go beyond the stereotype. Examples include the colours of children’s clothes or the activities they pursue during childhood. These may seem unimportant, but end up perpetuating role models that detract from, limit or oppress.

Stereotypes still persist in all stages of life, where imbalances appear in the distribution of domestic and care work, with women bearing the brunt. According to the Barcelona Health Survey (2021), 53.3% of women devote between 2 and 4 hours a day to domestic work at home, compared to a much lower figure of 34% among men.

They are also present in the development of professional careers, particularly in traditionally male-dominated sectors, where women have been made to think there is no place for them. It is increasingly normal to see women as firefighters, policewomen or pilots, as well as in careers in science and technology. Stereotypes are also being broken down in feminised professions such as cleaning, care work and children’s education, where men’s presence is increasing.

Yet there is still a long way to go. This path must include breaking down stereotypes during early childhood as roles can be learnt and unlearnt, though the best option is for stereotypes never to be learnt.