Stereotypes Are Embedded Early—and Stick

Across the globe, certain gender stereotypes become cemented at adolescence and trigger lifelong health consequences, according to the Global Early Adolescent Study.

At puberty, girls and boys are “segregated into different universes” with very different expectations, says lead author Caroline Moreau, The Telegraph reports.

Adolescents in China, Ecuador, Belgium, and Indonesia were more likely to report symptoms of depression if they internalized stereotypes that “privilege traditional masculinity and devalue feminine characteristics,” according to researchers, who spoke to 10,000+ boys and girls ages 10–14 across 15 countries.

Pervasive myths: Post-puberty, girls need protection to preserve their sexual and reproductive health; boys are strong and independent.

Tangible health consequences: For girls, they range from depression to leaving school early. For boys, a shorter life expectancy compared to women, and higher risk of engaging in physical violence, USA Today reports.