My first example of a paradigm shift deals with the evolution and acceptance of mental health specifically in the African American community. Dating back to the 1800’s and slavery, the African American community has developed this negative stigma around psychological disorders which has led to the suppression of emotions and has had this domino effect throughout history. But it wasn’t until just recently ,(early 2000s) , that mental health was actually acknowledged and saw as something that needed to be dealt with. I think this shift occurred mainly because of prominent figures taking that step forward to speak out, where we now have a lot of especially rap artist ,expressing certain trials they are facing mentally. Also, the relaxation around the idea that it is okay to be vulnerable and display emotions has made people feel more comfortable and as if they are not alone.
My second example is the paradigm shift in women’s body types and beauty standards. The expectation that women are expected to uphold are forever changing which is what makes this an interesting topic. In the 1500-1700;s curvy women were the common beauty standard, but later into the 1800’s once corsets were introduced the image of women were continuously modified. Now we live in an age where large lips and “instagram models” should be our inspiration. What causes these changes? Trends. The constant fluctuation of trends mainly developed by pop culture are displayed throughout all forms of media. These trends turn to the new standard therefore pushing women to fulfill these unrealistic ideas that have been accepted by everyone except women. It’s not by force that they succumb to this but I believe the outside factors stressing the idea that you aren’t beautiful if you don’t look a certain way played a big role.
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