Introduction/ THE PORTRAYAL OF WOMEN IN MEDIA
Media plays a significant role in shaping society’s attitudes towards women. Women are often portrayed in media as sexual objects, submissive, and inferior to men. This paper explores the portrayal of women in media and its impact on society.
The Portrayal of Women in Media:
Women are often portrayed in media in stereotypical and limiting ways. They are often depicted as sexual objects and are expected to conform to narrow beauty standards. This is evident in advertisements for beauty products, fashion, and other consumer goods, where women’s bodies are often objectified and used to sell products (Gunter, 2014).
Women are also frequently portrayed in media as weak and submissive, while men are portrayed as dominant and powerful. This is evident in movies, television shows, and even in news media, where women are often portrayed as victims of violence and men are depicted as aggressors (Dill & Thill, 2007).
The Impact of Portrayal of Women in Media:
The portrayal of women in media has a significant impact on society’s attitudes towards women. Studies have shown that exposure to media that objectifies women can lead to negative attitudes toward women, such as a belief that women are inferior to men and that they should be valued primarily for their physical appearance (Gentile et al., 2010; Ward, 2002).
The portrayal of women in media can also contribute to the perpetuation of gender-based violence and discrimination. For example, research has found that exposure to media that portrays women as sexual objects can lead to a higher acceptance of rape myths and an increased likelihood of engaging in sexual harassment (Lamb, 2016).
Positive Representations of Women in Media:
While the portrayal of women in media can be negative, there are also examples of positive representations of women. Some television shows and movies have featured strong female characters who defy gender stereotypes and challenge traditional gender roles. This type of representation can help to counteract the negative effects of media on attitudes towards women (Kahlor & Morrison, 2007).
Conclusion
In conclusion, the portrayal of women in media has a significant impact on society’s attitudes towards women. Women are often depicted in stereotypical and limiting ways, which can contribute to negative attitudes toward women, gender-based violence, and discrimination. However, positive representations of women in media can help to counteract these negative effects and promote gender equality.
References
Dill, K. E., & Thill, K. P. (2007). Video game characters and the socialization of gender roles: Young people’s perceptions mirror sexist media depictions. Sex Roles, 57(11-12), 851-864.
Gentile, D. A., Coyne, S., & Walsh, D. A. (2010). Media violence, physical aggression, and relational aggression in school-age children: A short-term longitudinal study. Aggressive Behavior, 36(5), 423-432.
Gunter, B. (2014). Media sexploitation. Routledge.
Kahlor, L. A., & Morrison, D. (2007). The impact of a health communication campaign on select mediators of behavior change. Journal of Health Communication, 12(2), 137-157.
Lamb, S. (2016). Sex, violence, and victimization: Awareness of gender-based violence and rape myths among youth. Sexuality Research and Social Policy, 13(2), 156-166.
Ward, L. M. (2002). Does television exposure affect emerging adults’ attitudes and assumptions about sexual relationships? Correlational and experimental confirmation. Journal of Youth and Adolescence, 31(1), 1-15.
