Cultural Media Portrayals Influence Sexual Identity Development
Culture is defined as "the behaviors and beliefs characteristic of a particular social, ethnic, or age group". It refers to the customs, norms, traditions, values, habits, expectations, ideologies, language, fashion, art, music, etc. that distinguish one society from another. Media portrayal involves how various types of media such as TV shows, movies, magazines, newspapers, books, radio programs, internet websites, advertising billboards, and social media platforms present certain messages.
Sexual identity development encompasses all aspects of an individual's self-perception and experience related to gender, sexual orientation, sexual attraction, sexual behavior, and romantic relationship preferences. According to psychologists, this process begins during infancy, and continues throughout life through interactions with family members, peers, educators, work colleagues, religious leaders, and other significant others.
Research indicates that cultural media portrayals influence people's perceptions about sex and sexuality in several ways.
Media exposure affects the acceptability of different types of relationships and desires among individuals. People who are exposed to positive portrayals of non-traditional lifestyles tend to be more tolerant of such practices. On the other hand, those who view negative representations often develop internalized prejudice against them.
Media depictions impact aspirations regarding sexual intimacy.
Heterosexual couples may become dissatisfied after watching pornography, because it sets unrealistic standards for physical performance or sexual frequency. This can also lead to feelings of inadequacy, shame, guilt, or low self-esteem. It is worth noting that some people use media images to explore their own desires and fantasies. Others emulate the behaviors they see on TV, hoping to replicate the same results.
There are cases when this leads to traumatic experiences such as sexual assault or STD transmission.
Media messages shape the way we view ourselves. Young girls are likely to believe that being thin and sexy equates to attractiveness, while young men perceive masculinity as muscle strength and aggression. Women who observe women in films, music videos, and magazines may feel pressured to conform to these stereotypes. Similarly, men who watch pornography may develop a distorted image of what constitutes normal sex behavior, leading to objectification of females or harmful expectations in romantic relationships.
Cultural media play an important role in influencing sexual identity development, aspirations, and self-concept. While positive portrayals can enhance acceptance and empowerment, negative ones can contribute to discomfort, anxiety, and dysfunctional attitudes. Parents, educators, healthcare providers, religious leaders, and other community members should work together to provide support, guidance, education, and resources to promote healthy sexuality among individuals.
How do cultural media portrayals influence sexual identity development, aspirations, and self-concept?
Sexual identity is often shaped by many factors such as personal experiences, social environment, and exposure to various forms of media. The depiction of different identities on television shows, movies, music videos, and advertisements can significantly impact people's perceptions of themselves and their relationships with others.