Media has always had an influence on society's viewpoints and perceptions. They play a vital role in shaping people's views towards different matters such as politics, gender roles, religious practices, social norms, fashion trends, and others.
One area that media influences is human sexuality.
Movies have played a significant part in creating unrealistic standards about what is considered attractive and desirable in terms of physical appearance. In this article, I will explore how media portrayals of sexuality shape adolescent relational expectations and behaviors.
Media has contributed to the normalization of casual sex and promiscuity among teenagers. Many teens are drawn to watching films and shows that contain explicit scenes which depict characters engaging in sexual activities. Moreover, some teenagers may find themselves identifying with these characters and imitating their actions without considering the potential consequences. This can result in them having multiple partners without protecting themselves against STDs or unwanted pregnancies.
Media portrayals of sexuality can lead to peer pressure whereby teens feel compelled to act out certain behaviors to fit in.
Another way media affects the perceptions of teenage sexuality is by influencing their understanding of what constitutes healthy relationships. Most TV programs and movies present romantic partnerships as perfect; even when they involve abusive behavior, it often appears glamorous. As a result, many teenagers assume that all relationships must be like this, while ignoring signs of an abusive partner. They also believe that relationships should be idealized, but this leads to unrealistic expectations that can cause disappointment and frustration later on. Also, media encourages hook-ups, leading to superficial bonds between people who do not know each other well enough to sustain a relationship. These types of relationships lack emotional intimacy and communication, and they rarely last long term.
Media influences how teens view gender roles and body image.
Advertising images create false expectations about physical appearance, making individuals feel inadequate if they do not meet these standards. Adolescent boys may develop body dysmorphia due to media depictions of muscular bodies, which are unattainable for most people. Girls, on the other hand, may suffer from eating disorders such as anorexia due to the constant bombardment with thin models. This distortion of reality can lead to low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression among young adults.
Media has played a significant role in shaping adolescents' perspectives on sex and sexuality. Teenagers have become accustomed to idealizing casual sex and promiscuity, assuming that every romantic relationship will be perfect, and seeing only the idealized versions of men and women portrayed by the media. As a result, many struggle to build healthy relationships based on mutual respect, communication, trust, and commitment.
Parents, educators, and mental health professionals need to intervene and help teens identify the true nature of healthy relationships and how to navigate them.
How do media portrayals of sexuality shape adolescent relational expectations and behaviors?
Media portrayals of sexuality play an important role in shaping adolescents' relational expectations and behaviors by reinforcing traditional gender roles and promoting normative sexual scripts that may not reflect their lived experiences or desires. These portrayals often depict heterosexual relationships as the ideal and encourage young people to pursue relationships based on physical attraction rather than emotional connection.