"Stereotyping is an attempt to diminish human dignity, reinforcing prejudice and ignorance, and weakening those structures that offer protection in society. In a mass mediated society, stereotypes, especially about women and men, can easily become ingrained, ultimately contributing to repression and leading to violence. Consequently, it is vital for social communications – mass, community, and social media – to represent people, no matter
who they are or where they come from, in a more balanced and gender-sensitive way. Moreover, it is important for those responsible for media content – including what has become known as user-generated content – to counter gender bias wherever it occurs." (Editorial, page 1)