Sexualized Media's Role in Shaping Sexual Expectations, Self-Concept, and Relational Standards
In this essay, I will explore the impact of sexualized media on individuals' perceptions of themselves, their sexual partners, and their relationships. While there is no single answer to how these factors may be affected, research suggests that exposure to sexualized media can influence the way people view themselves and others, including their body image, self-esteem, and attitudes toward sexual behavior. This paper seeks to examine these effects more closely by reviewing empirical evidence from various studies.
The Impact of Sexualized Media on Body Image
One study found that women who were exposed to sexualized images of other women experienced decreased body satisfaction and increased desire for cosmetic surgery compared to those who viewed nonsexualized images (Murnen et al., 2018). Women also reported feeling more pressure to conform to societal beauty standards when exposed to these types of images (Hill & Tiggeman, 2005). Men, on the other hand, did not report significant changes in body dissatisfaction or desire for plastic surgery after viewing sexually explicit material (Stapleton et al., 2019).
Men who watched pornography frequently had lower body esteem than those who did not (Poulsen et al., 2020), suggesting that certain types of sexualized media may have different effects depending on gender.
Self-Esteem
Exposure to sexualized media has been linked to negative self-esteem among both men and women (Fredrickson & Roberts, 1997; Kupfermann et al., 2007).
One study found that women who viewed a film with sexual content experienced lower self-esteem and higher anxiety levels compared to those who watched a neutral film (Woodard et al., 2006). Another study showed that young women who viewed sexually suggestive advertisements felt worse about their bodies than those who saw nonsexual ads (Nash & McIntosh, 2006).
Frequent exposure to sexy media was associated with decreased self-esteem and increased depression symptoms in college students (Rodgers, 2013).
Attitudes Towards Sexual Behavior
Sexualized media can also influence attitudes towards sexual behavior. One study found that men who were exposed to erotic images tended to view their partners as more interested in casual sex and less likely to be monogamous (McCabe et al., 2014). Similarly, women who viewed sexy ads reported greater acceptance of rape myths compared to those who saw nonsexual ads (Harrington & Hearn, 2015).
Other research suggests that the effects may depend on individual differences such as age or religiosity (Tanis & Strelan, 2018).
What role does sexualized media play in shaping sexual expectations, self-concept, and relational standards?
The role of sexualized media is significant in how it influences individuals' perceptions and understanding of sex, relationships, and intimacy. It provides an overwhelming amount of information on what constitutes appropriate behavior and expectations for men and women, including but not limited to physical appearances, body types, dressing styles, sexual practices, gender roles, and more.