Sexualization is the process of making something more sexual, sensual, or erotic than necessary or appropriate. It can be applied to objects, activities, behaviors, ideas, images, or representations. Sexualized media are those that present sexual themes through images, narratives, dialogues, and/or music. Exposure to sexualized media shapes people's perceptions of what is normal, acceptable, expected, desirable, and achievable when it comes to sexual activity. This exposure happens in many ways, including TV shows, movies, video games, social media, advertising, magazines, billboards, posters, commercials, and music videos. These sources often portray exaggerated forms of sex, such as frequent partner changes, group sex, explicit language, kinky acts, extreme positions, unrealistic bodies, excessive pleasure, and idealized settings. They also tend to emphasize romantic relationships and monogamy. As a result, some individuals may feel pressured to engage in similar practices because they see them as a prerequisite for intimacy or relationship success. In this article, we will explore how exposure to sexualized media reshapes sexual expectations by examining relevant literature and discussing its implications.
Research has found that men and women exposed to sexualized media have higher levels of body dissatisfaction, which negatively affects their self-esteem and confidence.
One study showed that female participants who saw a series of magazine ads with thin models reported lower body satisfaction compared to those who saw non-sexualized ads. Another study revealed that young women who regularly watched sexy television programs were more likely to compare themselves to the actors/actresses on screen and develop negative feelings about their bodies. Similarly, another study suggested that boys who consumed pornography exhibited an increased drive for casual sex, promiscuity, and infidelity. It is possible that these effects occur because sexualized media present unattainable ideals and unhealthy standards of beauty. Therefore, viewers may feel inadequate and attempt to change their appearance or behavior accordingly.
The consequences of sexualization are not limited to body image concerns; it can also impact people's overall attitudes towards sex and relationships.
Research suggests that sexualized content may contribute to rape myth acceptance by normalizing aggressive behaviors and objectifying others. Also, individuals exposed to such material tend to hold more permissive views regarding sexual exploration, leading to higher rates of risky practices like multiple partners, unsafe sex, and sexual coercion.
They may be more tolerant of violence against women, which could lead to victim blaming and minimization.
Sexualized media can reinforce traditional gender roles and promote harmful stereotypes. Men, for example, may internalize the idea that masculinity equates to dominance and control over women, while women might feel obligated to provide pleasure without receiving any in return. These expectations can cause distorted perceptions and frustrations, resulting in poor communication, misaligned desires, and unsatisfying experiences.
Exposure to sexualized media has detrimental effects on individual and societal levels. While there are no simple solutions, addressing this issue requires education, regulation, and awareness. Parents should monitor what their children consume and discuss its potential implications. Educators must teach students about the dangers of pornography and provide alternative sources of information. Media producers need to consider the impact of their choices and create healthier representations of intimacy.
Policymakers must enact laws and policies that protect vulnerable populations from exploitation and abuse.
Everyone needs to take responsibility for promoting positive sexual attitudes and creating a culture where all people feel valued and respected regardless of gender, race, age, or body type.
How does exposure to sexualized media reshape sexual expectations?
Exposure to sexualized media can have various effects on an individual's perception of sex and sexuality, which may lead to changes in sexual expectations over time. Some studies suggest that frequent viewing of pornography can desensitize individuals to certain forms of sexual behavior, leading them to seek out increasingly extreme or deviant behaviors in real life (e. g. , violence, dominance, or fetishism).