Sexualization is a process whereby something, such as an image, symbol, object, behavior, identity, or even language is made into something sexual, sensual, or erotic. In the context of social interactions and human relations, it can be seen as a way for individuals to express themselves through physical appearance or actions that are perceived as attractive, appealing, alluring, enticing, inviting, seductive, etc., creating an atmosphere of intimacy and romantic tension between them.
This approach has also been used to promote unequal power dynamics within hierarchies and influence networks among members of different genders and socioeconomic classes.
Researchers have proposed the existence of hidden hierarchies based on gender and class differences, with men being able to gain power and authority over women due to their superior status in society. This can lead to situations where women may be coerced or manipulated into engaging in certain activities or behaviors that benefit male partners while giving up some level of control over their own lives. Another way in which sexualized perception contributes to hidden hierarchies is by influencing relationships between people who share similar backgrounds but have different levels of economic resources.
Rich people may use sex appeal to manipulate poor people into doing things they wouldn't otherwise do, such as paying higher prices for goods or services or accepting less than fair wages.
Sexualized perception can affect decision-making processes related to workplace promotion, political campaigns, business transactions, and other areas that require negotiations involving multiple actors.
When one group tries to persuade another group using flirtatious strategies like compliments, flattery, charm, body language, touching, eye contact, etc., it often leads to favoritism towards those who conform to traditional ideas about beauty standards (i.e., thinness) and/or possess certain physical attributes (i.e., youthfulness). As a result, these individuals are more likely to receive promotions, raises, better job opportunities, awards, public recognition, etc., at the expense of others who don't meet these criteria even though they might be equally qualified for the position.
Sexualized perception can create social power imbalances within friendship networks based on gender roles and expectations around intimacy and closeness.
Women may feel pressure from male peers to maintain a close relationship with them despite their lack of interest due to fears about rejection or losing access to resources (e.g., money, support, favors). Similarly, men may engage in casual relationships with multiple partners while expecting exclusivity from their female friends without offering anything substantial in return, leading to frustration among both parties over time.
Sexualized perception is also linked to prejudice and discrimination against people who identify as LGBTQIA+, nonbinary, transgender, intersex, etc., since society generally views these groups as deviant or abnormal compared to cisgender heterosexuals. As such, members of these communities often face difficulties accessing education, healthcare services, employment opportunities, housing options, etc., due to stereotypes and biases related to their sexual orientation/identity.
Sexualized perception contributes significantly to hidden hierarchies by influencing decision-making processes based on gender differences and class disparity; affecting workplace dynamics through favoritism; creating tensions between friends due to unequal investments in relationships; promoting inequality within friendship circles by imposing rigid gender roles and expectations; and perpetuating prejudices towards minorities based on sexual identity markers.
To what degree does sexualized perception contribute to hidden hierarchies, influence networks, and social power?
Sexualized perception can be seen as a contributor to hidden hierarchies, influence networks, and social power due to its impact on how individuals are viewed, valued, and treated by others based on their perceived attractiveness and desirability.