More than likely you'd disagree that all of the qualities commonly attributed to those of your gender, racial group, sexual orientation or nation of origin describe you. For example, someone who meets a few individuals from a particular country might find them to be quiet and reserved. In short, when one stereotypes, one repeats the cultural myths already present in a society. Simply put, stereotypes are characteristics imposed upon groups of people because of their race, culture, nationality, religion and sexual orientation, among others. Perhaps a society barred a group of people from practicing certain professions but welcomed them in others. Even stereotypes applied to a racial group become inconsistent when members of that group are broken down by national origin. Over the years, members of the group became associated with the professions they were actually allowed to practice. These stereotypes are so well-known that the average American wouldn't hesitate if asked to identify which racial group in this country has a reputation for excelling in basketball. Simply put, stereotypes are characteristics imposed upon groups of people because of their race, culture, nationality, religion and sexual orientation, among others. Say a woman encounters individuals from a particular ethnic group and finds them to be excellent cooks. Certain stereotypes apply to Asian-Americans generally, but the Asian-American population can also be broken down by sex. Say a woman encounters individuals from a particular ethnic group and finds them to be excellent cooks. The problem with stereotypes is that they suggest that groups of people are inherently prone to certain behaviors. It's often said that stereotypes are rooted in truth, but this is not a valid statement. Although such a stereotype targets a specific segment of African-Americans rather than black people in general, it's still problematic to suggest that black gay men are all a certain way.