Media influence is undeniable - it shapes our understanding of the world around us. We are exposed to an endless stream of messages through television shows, movies, advertising, music videos, social media platforms, news outlets, etc., which all contribute to our perception of reality. The same applies to our sexual lives, where media plays a significant role in shaping our attitudes, ideals, expectations, desires, and experiences. In this essay, I will explore how media exposure affects our views of sex, sexuality, intimacy, and relationships.
Let's consider the representation of sex in the media. Movies, TV shows, and even pornography often depict idealized versions of sex that are unrealistic and detached from real life. They focus on body types, positions, movements, and techniques, ignoring important aspects like emotional connection, communication, consent, boundaries, and safety. Such representations perpetuate harmful stereotypes about gender roles, power dynamics, and what constitutes 'good sex.'
Women are often portrayed as passive objects for male pleasure, while men are expected to be aggressive and dominant. This can lead to confusion and disappointment when real-life encounters don't match these unattainable standards. Moreover, media glorifies casual hookups and one-night stands without exploring their psychological consequences or health risks. This normalizes promiscuity and objectification, making people more prone to riskier behaviors.
We must address the impact of sexualized content on self-perception. Media constantly bombards us with images of perfect bodies, flawless skin, and 'ideal' beauty standards. These messages promote body insecurities and a desire to conform to these norms, creating feelings of inadequacy and shame.
They suggest that attraction and arousal depend solely on physical appearance, leading to misguided expectations and shallow connections. In addition, media often portrays romantic relationships as problem-free, which is far from reality. Characters rarely argue or face challenges, giving viewers an unrealistic sense of romance that sets them up for disappointment.
Media shapes our relational expectations. Social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok popularize unhealthy relationship practices like jealousy, possessiveness, control, infidelity, and violence. They normalize polyamory, open relationships, and non-monogamy, blurring the lines between what is acceptable and ethical. As a result, many young adults struggle to identify and define their own values, boundaries, and needs, leading to confusion and frustration.
Media exposure plays a significant role in shaping our sexual self-perception, ideals, and relational expectations. It can create false beliefs, distorted realities, and harmful behaviors. Therefore, it's essential to be critical consumers, questioning what we see and hear, seeking accurate information and guidance, and developing healthy attitudes toward sex and intimacy.
What role does media exposure play in shaping sexual self-perception, ideals, and relational expectations?
Research suggests that media exposure can shape an individual's perception of what constitutes acceptable sexual behavior, what sexual partners should look like, and what relationships should entail (e. g. , "The media has been shown to be highly influential in shaping people's views about sex" - Oswald & Mitchell 2016). This influence is particularly prevalent among individuals who consume large amounts of media content and engage with it regularly.