Role model

A role model is an individual whose behavior, actions, or successes serve as a pattern for others to follow. This concept is especially important for younger people who are developing their own identities. The term was first used by the sociologist Robert K. Merton. He suggested that people compare themselves to "reference groups." These are groups of people who hold the social roles that an individual wants to achieve. For example, a young person might idolize a professional athlete to learn how to succeed in sports.

In the second half of the twentieth century, the term became part of a larger set of ideas regarding social capital. Advocates for workplace equity used terms like "glass ceiling," "mentoring," and "gatekeeper" to describe professional barriers. They used the concept of role models to help non-dominant groups find success in the workplace. These terms were not common in American vocabulary in 1970. However, by the mid-1990s, they had become part of everyday speech. Today, the term remains a powerful presence in media and the entertainment industry.

Role models can influence a person's career path and personal choices. Historian Pamela Laird noted that the suitability of a model often depends on how much the admirer shares in common with them. A good role model should provide a goal that feels both ambitious and realistic. In the nineteenth century, many white businessmen looked to Benjamin Franklin as a model. This included notable figures like Thomas Mellon, B.F. Goodrich, and Frederick Weyerhäuser. Because many existing models did not reflect the lives of women or minorities, specific efforts were made in the late twentieth century to develop suitable role models for those groups.

Different types of role models exist in society, ranging from family to celebrities. For children, parents are often the most common role models because of the constant positive attributes they observe. Teachers also play a huge role. Educator Rita Pierson suggested that teachers have a massive impact on children due to the time they spend together. In the realm of popular culture, the media has elevated many celebrities to worldwide fame. A 2008 survey by the Association of Teachers and Lecturers in the United Kingdom found that young people most often chose sports stars as role models. Pop stars were the second most common choice. Some youth even aspire to be "famous for being famous" through reality television.

Athletes are a specific subject of debate regarding their status as role models. Some people believe the discipline and control shown on the field should translate to life off the field. Others, like the athlete Charles Barkley, disagree. Barkley argued that athletes are not the figures children should emulate. He suggested that the media applies this role to athletes out of jealousy. He also believed that being a role model sets athletes up as unattainable targets. However, some athletes like Hank Greenberg have deliberately tried to set positive examples for their local communities.

Role models are vital for child development and can shape morals, aspirations, and confidence. Positive relationships with role models are linked to higher self-esteem, better school performance, and increased resilience. They can also help reduce risky behaviors in adolescents through observational learning. This influence is particularly significant for girls regarding gender norms. Research by Laurie T. O'Brien showed that middle school girls who interacted with enthusiastic female scientists felt a greater sense of belonging in STEM fields. Seeing women in male-dominated areas helps girls understand what they can achieve.

Media portrayals also shape these perceptions, though the impact can be complex. Characters like Mulan and Elsa challenge traditional femininity by focusing on bravery and independence. Mulan, for instance, questions societal expectations and chooses to be a warrior instead of a bride. However, older media like the 1950 version of Cinderella can present different challenges. Some researchers suggest that older films might lead children to believe they must meet certain weight criteria or family perfection. Ultimately, studies in *Frontiers in Psychology* suggest that lasting influence requires more than just seeing a role model. It requires ongoing engagement and support, such as formal mentorship programs.