By Caroline Manausa/reporter

Gender roles are the parts people play out through their behavior and culture or the physiological traits typically associated with one’s sex, believes MaryJane Themudo, coordinator of research and training at the Women’s Center of Tarrant County.

Stereotyping is a simplistic, generalized belief that all people or things with a particular characteristic are the same.

Amy Suffield and Monica Gutierrez, community education specialists with The Women’s Center, will present Don’t Box Me In – Gender Roles and Stereotypes at 11:45 a.m. Oct. 22 on SE Campus. Both women have extensive experience in the Rape Crisis and Victim Services’ education outreach.

The seminars are designed to educate and prevent violence to adults as well as to children.

Workshops are interactive and offered as a safe place to talk about topics not ordinarily discussed.

Before behavior can be changed, attitudes and beliefs that contribute to violence have to be examined, Themudo said. It starts with conversation and raising awareness.

SafeHaven of Tarrant County is also involved in SE Campus violence prevention education seminars.

Sonya Splane, SE student services coordinator, said she approached The Women’s Center “to provide a variety of subjects to students from the aspect of different agencies.“

Don’t Box Me In focuses on the various reasons stereotyping is inappropriate.

All such workshops will be held on SE Campus in the Student Success Center ESEE 1301 from 11:45 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Events are free and open to the public.