Restroom symbols have historically reinforced gender stereotypes, with men depicted in pants and women in dresses. French psychiatrist Serge Tisseron examines this issue in his book, highlighting the origins of these pictograms, which emerged in the early 20th century alongside the rise of women in public spaces. Although abstract symbols appeared in the later decades, they still reflected outdated gender norms. Today, a shift towards more inclusive and neutral signage is occurring, though it faces debates over safety and representation.
The Evolution of Restroom Pictograms
For years, restroom symbols depicting a character in pants for men and another in a dress for women have perpetuated gender stereotypes, according to French psychiatrist Serge Tisseron. In his new book, “At the end of the corridor on the left,” he explores the historical context and implications of these pictograms, showcasing a collection of around 200 restroom symbols captured in various locations, primarily across France and the United States.
Understanding the Origins of Pictograms
The practice of segregating restrooms emerged in the early 20th century, coinciding with women’s increasing presence in public spaces, driven by the belief that they required protection from men. Initially, restroom doors displayed the words “men” and “women,” but this posed challenges for international visitors. With growing tourism, the need for “universally understandable images” became apparent, leading to the introduction of pictograms in the 1950s.
Japan initiated this movement, aiming to create a universal visual language for attendees of the 1964 Olympic Games. However, the earliest mass-produced pictograms presented a narrow view of gender, showcasing a man in pants and a woman in a skirt or dress. Venue owners often designed their own symbols, some featuring characters in fashionable attire from different eras or distinct objects like gloves or shoes. Notably, masculine representations were characterized by “broad shoulders” and accessories that conveyed strength, while feminine depictions leaned towards themes of motherhood or seduction, frequently designed by male artists.
As societal norms evolved throughout the 20th century, so did clothing styles, with women increasingly embracing pants, shorts, and casual wear. Despite these changes, Tisseron notes that visual representations of masculinity and femininity lagged behind, remaining entrenched in traditional imagery. The most significant shift during this time was the emergence of abstract pictograms in the 1970s and 1980s, yet these still maintained the same outdated gender cues.
Even though we may only glance at these symbols before entering a restroom, they play a significant role in shaping our perceptions of gender. Tisseron emphasizes that these repetitive images “mark our imagination” and influence our understanding of gender roles, similar to advertising visuals. Activist groups have long criticized gendered marketing for its perpetuation of stereotypes, yet the specific issue of restroom signage has often gone unnoticed.
Today, as society continues to evolve, these outdated pictograms are being replaced with more neutral symbols, such as simple indications like “toilets” or “WC,” or images that reflect gender diversity. Innovative new characters are emerging, including humorous representations of women in pants, and even hybrid or alien figures. The concept of mixed restrooms is gaining traction, offering a more inclusive environment for transgender individuals. However, this shift is not without controversy, as some raise concerns regarding safety for women in these shared spaces.