What Did You Say?
The Opinions of LHS Students
The Opinions of LHS Students
By Travion Freeman April 18, 2023
Judging someone based on their appearance is a common phenomenon, and it can have negative impacts on individuals, groups, and society as a whole. Appearance-based discrimination is prevalent in workplaces, educational institutions, social gatherings, and even within families. This kind of judgment can cause harm in several ways.
Firstly, appearance-based discrimination can harm an individual's mental health. When people are judged solely on their appearance, it can lead to feelings of low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. For instance, individuals who are constantly subjected to negative remarks or ridicule about their physical attributes may develop insecurities and a negative self-image, leading to mental health problems. Such judgment can also cause stress and anxiety, further impacting a person's mental well-being.
Secondly, appearance-based discrimination can limit opportunities for individuals. When people are judged solely on their appearance, it can prevent them from accessing job opportunities, educational opportunities, and even social opportunities. This form of discrimination can affect a person's career prospects and reduce their chances of getting hired, promoted, or even taken seriously. For example, employers may overlook a highly qualified candidate because of their physical appearance limiting their professional growth.
Thirdly, appearance-based discrimination can lead to social exclusion. When individuals are judged solely on their appearance, it can lead to the formation of social hierarchies and stigmatization. For instance, people who do not conform to societal beauty standards may be excluded from social events, activities, and even friend groups. This form of discrimination can also lead to bullying and harassment, which can further impact a person's mental health and well-being.
Fourthly, appearance-based discrimination can perpetuate negative stereotypes and biases. When people are judged solely on their appearance, it can reinforce stereotypes and biases about certain groups of people. This kind of judgment can lead to the internalization of these biases and can perpetuate prejudice and discrimination. This can create a ripple effect, impacting individuals, communities, and society as a whole.
Lastly, a source I got that is reliable,According to New York University assistant professor of psychology David Amodio, "stereotypes are seen as a necessary mechanism for making sense of information." Even though there are many different kinds of chairs, we can quickly classify a chair by looking at it.” Just by a glimpse of something our brains automatically start ts thinking about what we can associate this with Whether it’s a person or animal brains all work the same and judgment is everywhere.
In conclusion, appearance-based discrimination can harm individuals, limit opportunities, cause social exclusion, and perpetuate negative stereotypes and biases. As a society, we must be aware of the impact of appearance-based judgment and strive towards creating a more inclusive and accepting environment that values people for who they are and not how they look.