Sexualization is a process whereby an individual becomes objectified and reduced to their physical attributes, especially related to sexuality. It can manifest itself in various ways, such as the creation of specific stereotypes regarding gender roles, the objectification of women or men's bodies, or the promotion of unrealistic beauty standards. Sexualized perception has been shown to have a profound impact on how people perceive power dynamics between individuals and how they relate to each other. It also shapes narratives about vulnerability and influence, which are key aspects of interpersonal communication.
In this essay, I will examine how sexualized perception influences the construction of narratives about power, vulnerability, and influence through three case studies. The first example is 'Fifty Shades of Grey', a novel that explores BDSM practices and the power dynamics between dominant and submissive partners. The second example is 'The Handmaid's Tale', a dystopian novel that portrays a totalitarian society where women's reproductive rights are taken away.
I will discuss how sexualized perception affects the representation of rape victims in media narratives.
Let's consider 'Fifty Shades of Grey'. In this novel, the main character, Christian Grey, is presented as a wealthy, powerful man who enjoys controlling his partner in bed. He uses sex to exert control over her, and she eventually agrees to become his submissive partner. This reflects how some individuals view relationships: one person holds all the power while the other is completely at their mercy. It shows how power imbalances can manifest themselves even within intimate relationships.
It is important to note that sexualization does not always lead to power imbalances; some people enjoy being dominated or submitting to others during sex.
We have 'The Handmaid's Tale.' This novel takes place in a future world where fertility rates have plummeted due to pollution. Women are enslaved and forced into becoming child-bearing machines for infertile couples. They are stripped of their individuality, identity, and agency, making them vulnerable and dependent on men for survival. This reflects how some societies still treat women today: they are seen as objects whose sole purpose is to procreate. This lack of control and autonomy can make them feel vulnerable and exploited, which is reflected in the way they are portrayed in the story.
We have the depiction of rape victims in media narratives. When someone is raped, they may be viewed as weak and helpless, unable to defend themselves against an attacker. This perpetuates the idea that women must always be protected by men, creating a power dynamic between the two genders. Sexualized perception also affects how rape victims are treated after the incident: many people blame them for what happened instead of holding the rapist accountable. This reflects how society views rape as something that could happen to anyone, regardless of gender or sexual orientation, but only if they are careless or naive enough to put themselves in danger.
Sexualized perception influences the construction of narratives about power, vulnerability, and influence by promoting stereotypes about gender roles, objectifying bodies, and reducing individuals to their physical attributes. It leads to unequal relationships, makes women feel vulnerable and exploited, and creates a false sense of security around sex crimes. By understanding how sexualization shapes our interactions with others, we can begin to challenge these harmful attitudes and promote healthier ways of relating to each other.
How does sexualized perception influence the construction of narratives about power, vulnerability, and influence?
Sexualized perception influences the construction of narratives about power by shaping how people perceive their own desirability, attractiveness, and appeal to others, which can lead to self-esteem issues, body image concerns, and social anxiety. These feelings can then shape people's beliefs about their ability to assert themselves, negotiate relationships, and control their environment, leading them to see themselves as less powerful than they actually are.