Namuun Zimmermann

Stereotypes are in many ways important, allowing the expression of social and cultural attitudes. Unfortunately stereotypes are often based on prejudices, which in turn places constraints on people's lives. Individuals are prevented from doing the things they want to do – stopped by the pressure to fulfil the expectations or ideals imposed on them.

From birth, structural constraints are imposed on children by society. Children get taught which colours, toys, games, activities, cartoons and clothes are for each gender. These social rules become accepted, and in turn affect the behaviour of children when they come to make their own decisions or express their own views.

Using social experiments, existing game methodologies and the format of role play, I have begun to deconstruct the social and cultural structures and attitudes which surround children. To stop this limitation on children I have been developing a series of workshops, the focus of which is to allow children to explore their individual position towards their own identity.