Introduction
The present statement is an example of gender-based discrimination and prejudice among women. Sexism and gender discrimination in America have a long and complicated history. Scott (2017) states that “Historically, women were underrepresented in the workplace, athletics and academics” (para. 3). Today, women have earned the right to work alongside men in all types of positions, although they are still expected to value family and aspire to have children. Stay-at-home mothers, on the other hand, may face prejudice, as people overlook their contribution to society: raising children is considered to be a part-time duty and not hard work.
Main body
The causes of prejudice have been widely studied. Paluk (2016) explains that scientists consider prejudice to be a result of peer influence and perceived social or personal threats. In the present case, prejudice can be attributed to both influences. Peer influence shapes the view of single mothers as weak and dependent on social support services, disregarding the reasons for their situation and their efforts in raising children or searching for a job.
The perceived social threat, on the other hand, is that the taxpayer money will be spent on those who, from the accuser’s perspective, do not contribute to society and its development. The consequences of such prejudice can be very severe. Hearing such negative comments regularly can lead to depressive symptoms and anxiety. Moreover, if such views are widespread in society, they can lead to harassment and violence against stay-at-home mothers.
Conclusion
To resolve the proposed conflict, it is crucial to employ both theory and conversation (Paluk, 2016). For instance, it could be useful to explain the share of taxes that is attributed to the welfare of stay-at-home mothers or share the reasons why women want to stay on welfare instead of searching for a job. Secondly, the mediator could introduce the accuser to a stay-at-home mother and promote positive interaction between the two. Overall, by using an appropriate conflict resolution strategy, it is possible to decrease prejudice and avoid its negative consequences.
References
Paluk, E. L. (2016). How to overcome prejudice: A brief conversation can have a lasting effect on prejudice. Science Magazine, 352(6282), 147.
Scott, S. (2017). The causes, effects & remedies for gender discrimination.