Not everyone can be quantified into a specific group but that doesn't stop people from trying. People use labels for other people or groups because it's easier for them. They feel more comfortable if they feel they know what people are about and how they tick.
Labels are used sometimes because it's easy to put people in groups then to get to know them. It can be comforting to some people to use designations but the harmful effects can be long lasting, particularly to children.
It's hard for children to escape labeling. When they enter school they are often labeled by their teachers, administrators and peers. Designations like class clown, bully, brain or jock are hard to avoid.
On the surface it may seem the labeling isn't particularly significant with limited effect but the opposite can often be true. Once a labeled has been applied, some people find it hard or impossible to break out from that designation and be something different. They can lose motivation and self-esteem. They may stop seeing themselves as anything more than what they've been labeled.
When people are labeled they may feel there is no room to change or improve. They may feel stuck with their label, no matter what else happens in their life.
Some people fight the label they've been assigned, while others pretend to accept it and keep their feelings inside. They don't let on that they're upset and bottle up their emotions. They may be less willing to interact with others for fear that they will only be perceived as they have been labeled.
This self-imposed isolation can be damaging. It can lead to depression, substance abuse and anti-social behavior.
The next time you find yourself tempted to label someone try thinking about what's making you feel that way and the consequences it can have on that person. Try to keep an open mind and give that person a chance to show you and others all that they are about before you make up your mind about them.
Labels are used sometimes because it's easy to put people in groups then to get to know them. It can be comforting to some people to use designations but the harmful effects can be long lasting, particularly to children.
It's hard for children to escape labeling. When they enter school they are often labeled by their teachers, administrators and peers. Designations like class clown, bully, brain or jock are hard to avoid.
On the surface it may seem the labeling isn't particularly significant with limited effect but the opposite can often be true. Once a labeled has been applied, some people find it hard or impossible to break out from that designation and be something different. They can lose motivation and self-esteem. They may stop seeing themselves as anything more than what they've been labeled.
When people are labeled they may feel there is no room to change or improve. They may feel stuck with their label, no matter what else happens in their life.
Some people fight the label they've been assigned, while others pretend to accept it and keep their feelings inside. They don't let on that they're upset and bottle up their emotions. They may be less willing to interact with others for fear that they will only be perceived as they have been labeled.
This self-imposed isolation can be damaging. It can lead to depression, substance abuse and anti-social behavior.
The next time you find yourself tempted to label someone try thinking about what's making you feel that way and the consequences it can have on that person. Try to keep an open mind and give that person a chance to show you and others all that they are about before you make up your mind about them.
About the Author:
This author also frequently publishes articles on subject like the No Nonsense Muscle Building review together with Vince Delmonte.