The way that media portrays bodies has significant impact on how people perceive themselves and others. While some researchers argue that this is especially true for young adults, there is no consensus on the nature of these effects. In general, however, it seems clear that exposure to images of highly sexualized bodies can have negative consequences for both individuals' views of their own bodies and the quality of their interpersonal interactions.
Exposure to Sexualized Images
Many studies have found that youth are exposed to an increasing amount of sexualized media imagery, particularly through social networking platforms like Instagram and TikTok, and that this exposure may lead to changes in their self-perception and behavior.
One study showed that young women who were exposed to more sexualized advertisements reported lower body satisfaction and higher rates of engaging in risky sexual behaviors than those who saw less sexualized ads. Similarly, another study found that men who were exposed to more sexualized music videos had higher expectations about female appearance and behaviors during intimate encounters.
Impact on Erotic Identity
One potential consequence of exposure to sexualized media is a disruption in individuals' erotic identity. Erotic identity refers to how we view ourselves as sexually attractive or desirable, and it can be shaped by a variety of factors including cultural norms, personal experiences, and media messages. Some research suggests that exposure to hypersexualized representations of women's bodies may lead to women developing an "idealized" erotic identity in which they seek to emulate these unrealistic standards of beauty, while also feeling shame about their own bodies. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem, as well as difficulty connecting with partners who do not meet these ideals.
Effects on Intimacy Behaviors
Beyond the impact on individuals' sense of themselves as sexual beings, exposure to highly sexualized images has been linked to certain patterns of sexual behavior among young adults. One study found that college students who viewed pornography more frequently tended to report engaging in riskier sexual activities, such as unprotected sex, than those who did not. Another study showed that youth who watched more pornographic content reported lower levels of commitment in their relationships and greater acceptance of infidelity. These findings suggest that exposure to sexualized media may influence individuals' attitudes towards intimacy and relationships, potentially leading them to engage in behaviors that are less conducive to healthy connection and communication.
Research shows that exposure to sexualized media portrayals can have both short-term and long-term effects on individuals' self-perception, erotic identity, and intimate behaviors. While further study is needed to better understand these phenomena, it is clear that parents, educators, and policy makers should take steps to ensure that young people receive accurate information about body image and healthy sexuality, and that media outlets avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes.
How do media portrayals of sexualized bodies affect erotic identity, self-perception, and intimate behaviors among young adults?
Media portrayals of sexualized bodies can have various effects on the erotic identities, self-perceptions, and intimate behaviors of young adults. Studies show that exposure to media images of idealized and unrealistic body types creates negative body image issues among youth and leads to increased rates of eating disorders and low self-esteem. This may also lead to anxiety about their appearance and sexual desirability, which could impact their romantic relationships.