Sexualization and Conflict Frequency, Intensity, and Resolution Strategies
Sexualization refers to the act of treating something as being sexual or related to human sexuality. This phenomenon can occur in various ways; for example, in advertising campaigns, movies, music videos, fashion shows, and pornography. In everyday life, it also happens when people objectify others based on their appearance, body shape, attire, gestures, or mannerisms. When one is sexually objectified, they may feel embarrassed, ashamed, powerless, pressured, or harassed. Consequently, this can create conflict situations in which individuals try to resolve disputes regarding sexualized perceptions.
The frequency of such conflicts depends on the intensity of the situation, which could be either physical or verbal.
If a man makes an unwanted sexual advance towards a woman who declines his advances, he might become aggressive and physically assault her. On the other hand, if someone's dress code does not conform to societal norms, they may face verbal abuse from others.
The severity of these incidents varies depending on the context and the type of person involved.
Conflicts can have different resolution strategies that depend on factors like age, gender, social status, cultural background, religion, education, and upbringing. Individuals often resort to non-violent methods like communication, negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or legal action. Other times, they might use violent means like hitting, punching, slapping, kicking, biting, spitting, shooting, stabbing, choking, or strangulation. The most common strategy used by both genders is avoidance; they may ignore each other, walk away from an argument, or seek support from friends and family members.
Sexualization impacts conflict frequency, intensity, and resolution strategies because it creates power imbalances where some people view themselves as superior while others are perceived as inferior. This difference in perception can lead to disagreements that require a resolution approach based on mutual respect and understanding.
How do sexualized perceptions impact conflict frequency, intensity, and resolution strategies?
Sexualization of individuals can have several implications on their interpersonal dynamics, including conflicts that may arise between them. Firstly, when an individual is perceived as sexually attractive, they are often held to higher standards of behavior and performance than others around them, which can lead to increased pressure and stress levels. This increased stress can manifest in various ways, including but not limited to verbal and physical aggression during conflicts.