Erotic films can be defined as movies that contain explicit scenes of sexual activity between actors, usually to portray a story about human passion, lust, and pleasure. These types of films have been around for decades and have become increasingly popular worldwide, especially with the rise of streaming platforms such as Netflix and Hulu.
Their impact on viewers' expectations of performance, body image, and gendered roles in sexuality is often overlooked.
Erotic films can shape viewers' expectations of sexual performance through depicting unrealistic scenarios. Many people find it difficult to match up to what they see in these movies because they are idealized representations created by professionals who receive training to make them look good on camera.
Pornographic actresses go through rigorous preparation before shooting scenes, including dieting, exercising, and using makeup techniques that enhance their appearance. Therefore, some people may feel pressured to live up to those standards when engaging in real intimacy, leading to feelings of inadequacy or even shame if they cannot meet them.
Erotic films can influence body image by glorifying certain physical attributes. Actors with large breasts, muscular bodies, and perfect skin are often featured in these movies, giving viewers an unrealistic perception of what is desirable in partners. This can lead to body dysmorphia, where individuals feel unhappy with their own bodies and seek ways to alter them to resemble what they see on screen.
The objectification of women in these movies can reinforce harmful stereotypes about femininity and masculinity, where men are expected to be dominant and aggressive while women are submissive and passive.
Erotic films can affect viewers' perceptions of sexual scripts, which are patterns of behavior that guide how partners interact during sex. These scripts include initiating sexual encounters, expressing desire, and engaging in particular activities such as oral sex. Viewers exposed to specific sexual scripts may internalize them as normative and expect their partners to follow similar behaviors.
This can cause conflicts and misunderstandings since not everyone has the same script, leading to frustration and confusion for both parties.
Erotic films can significantly impact viewers' expectations of performance, body image, and gendered roles in sexuality. They can create unrealistic expectations, pressure people to conform to idealized standards, and perpetuate harmful gender roles. Therefore, it is crucial to approach these movies critically and understand their impact on personal relationships.
How do erotic films influence expectations of performance, body image, and gendered roles in sexuality?
Erotic films may influence our expectations of performance during sex by promoting unrealistic depictions of passionate, spontaneous, and effortless encounters between partners who are physically perfect and possess flawless sexual technique. These ideals can create pressure on individuals to meet such high standards and lead to feelings of shame, guilt, or even self-loathing when their real-life experiences fall short of these imagined scenarios.