For example, Laird suggests that, Benjamin Franklin served as the role model for countless nineteenth-century white businessmen, including notables such as Thomas Mellon, B.F. Goodrich, and Frederick Weyerhäuser.
[5] Parent role models also significantly influence a person's "education and training aspirations, task self-efficacy, and expectancy for an entrepreneurial career".
[12] Some athletes have been asked to behave as if they were role models for their local communities,[13] and some such as Hank Greenberg have deliberately tried to set a good example[14] but generally regarding athletes as role models has been criticised due to their appointment often being based solely on sporting ability rather than any morality[15][16] – it has been suggested that the discipline and control shown continuously by sportspeople on the field leads to a belief from viewers that these same qualities are continuously shown off the field.
However, many studies have shown that positive relationships with a role model is associated with higher levels of certain traits, such as "elevated self-esteem, performance in school, and resilience".
According to a study conducted by Laurie T. O'Brien, middle school girls who interacted with competent and enthusiastic female scientists reported a greater sense of belonging in STEM fields.
[24] In media, the portrayal of strong, independent female characters such as Disney Princesses, also influences girl's actions and perceptions of gender roles.
Cartoons like Elsa and Mulan challenge traditional depictions of femininity by instead focusing on themes like bravery and independence as opposed to the typical portrayal of the beautiful, love interest princess.
[25] It is also important to note how within the younger generation of girl's the influence of in Disney Princesses on them, Mulan as an example, struggles with her identity, moments within the song "Reflection", she questions societal exceptions that were placed upon her.
Mulan disobeys the stereotypical role assigned to her as a woman and continues with her journey by empowering the message that it's okay to not conform into these social norms through encouraging individuals to embrace their true identities.
While short term exposure to non-traditional female role models can help reduce gender stereotypes in certain situations, it does not always translate to sustained changes in behavior or career aspirations.
The research also found that children who are exposed to gender-incongruent roles such as male kindergarten teachers, or female scientists then this can challenger traditional gender norms.