Gender Stereotypes In The Media Essay

The Mass media plays a significant role in the modern world. We are constantly bombarded by media in the form of commercials, billboards, and other advertisements simply telling us who are seemed to be. The media is a powerful source that influences the way people think and feel. It has the ability to persuade and convince the audience in many aspects. By simply creating a certain type of message, Media can manipulate people’s attitude and opinions. All stereotypes from different cultures, race and ethnicities are depicted in the media, specifically gender stereotypes. Stereotypes can come from our own observations or come from the influence of the significant others, family, friends and most importantly the media. The problem with stereotypes

The truth is that the media depicts these kind of stereotypes and influence people that women have specific social roles. In the article “Stereotyping of Women in Television Advertisements” Vaishali Shrikhandi a professor from University of Pune states “One of the most common findings from media and cultivation studies is that increased television viewing is associated with more stereotypical views, especially of gender.” The article then explains how women are more often presented in commercials, because they are seen as responsible for making everyday purchases. Men generally advertise cars, cigarettes, business products or investments, whereas women are shown rather in the commercials with cosmetics and domestic products. They are also more likely portrayed in the home environment, unlike men, who are shown outdoors. For example, Carls Jr advertisers always come up with ideas to exploit women by portraying them as a sex object. Having women dress provocatively while cooking and eat their burgers sexually to attract the audience and present women in a negative way is morally wrong and as a result, sadly accepted in