How to recognise and address sexism and when to get support

Hostile sexism: To maintain male domination

Benevolent sexism: Desire to protect women due to a belief that women are weaker than men

Ambivalent sexism: Based on beliefs that women are both fragile and pure as well as manipulative and conniving

Interpersonal sexism: Occurs in everyday interactions

Internalised sexism: Conforming to the current sexist systems

Institutional sexism: When big institutions reinforce sexist ideology

Beliefs taught by caregivers and educators

Laws that promote different treatment according to gender

Sexist imagery and language in pop culture and media

Normalisation of sexual harrassment and sexist jokes from media

Lack of policies penalising sexism in the workplace, schools and other sectors

Remember that you're not obligated to call out sexism every time you witness it - especially if you don't feel safe doing so

Calmly but firmly challenge sexist statements by asking, ‘What makes you say that? Can you explain that to me?'

Try making ‘I' statements

Specify what you will not and won't tolerate - set boundaries

In the workplace/ school: Consider talking to a person of authority

Acknowledge the gender norms and your current beliefs

Whenever you notice sexist thoughts and behaviours, reflect on why you hold those beliefs

A therapist can also help you:

• Pinpoint your current thinking patterns

• Explore underlying causes of sexist beliefs

• Begin taking steps to overcome them

• Coach you on coping strategies

• Communicate your thoughts and feelings to yourself and the people around you