Sexual Objectification of Women
There is currently a lot of conversation in our community about the sexual objectification of women. Many dancers have written eloquently on why it is an
important issue. We hope to add to this dialogue by defining the term and
giving some examples. Unlike our average blog, this one
will contain citations and a bibliography. Because of the nature and
timing of this blog, it is important that we not just share our own experience,
but also point you in the right direction if you are interested in reading
more.
To objectify someone is to view them as an object,
rather than as a subject, or a human with feelings, thoughts, opinions and
value. To sexually objectify someone is to view a person as an instrument
of sexual pleasure. Objectification occurs in interpersonal relationships
and in the broader culture as pornography, prostitution, sexual harassment, and sexualized representation of women in mass media.(1) Sexual
objectification is not the same as sexual attraction. Sexual
objectification occurs when the individuality of the desired person is not acknowledged or recognized.
The dehumanization that results from objectification
can cause a host of problems for the subject, object and community.
Impact of sexual objectification on the person who is
being objectified
When people are objectified, they are
denied personhood. Research indicates that objectified women are seen as
less competent, sincere, moral and intelligent.(2,3) Further, exposure to sexualized images of women negatively impacts how
the male viewer perceives other women (not just the woman being pictured).(2)
Objectification not only harms the women who are objectified but also harms
women in general.
Impact of sexual objectification on women in general
Each individual act of sexual objectification has
consequences. When many representations of women are
sexualized (i.e., objectified), a “rape culture” develops, where women are
blamed when they are victimized and rape is trivialized.(7)
Further, women who grow up in a culture with widespread sexual
objectification tend to internalize those messages. This is called
“internalized self-objectification.” If you grow up in a culture that
objectifies women you will do this to some extent without even realizing
it. This internalization can result in issues including eating disorders,
depression, body shame, sexual dysfunction, depression, and substance
abuse.(4)
Impact of sexual objectification on the person who is
objectifying another:
There are negative implications for the person who is
doing the objectifying as well. If you discount a person’s feelings,
thoughts, and dreams, instead focusing on their appearance, they become less
than real to you. Carole Heldman, PhD, has found that exposure to images
of sexually objectified women causes male viewers to be more tolerant of sexual
harassment and rape myths.(5)
What can I do?
First, remember that people who are objectified
respond in different ways. Some, particularly those with a history of
sexual violation, may be deeply impacted by an instance that another person
might consider a nuisance. You can respect each person’s unique response
and offer support accordingly.
Second, remember that the impact of objectification extends
far beyond the people targeted to the entire community. Just as the ones
objectified have varying responses, so do those in our community.
Third, remember that demonizing the people who acted
in ways that objectify others is a form of objectification in and of itself.
Holding people accountable for these attitudes and actions is
appropriate.
This is a deep topic and we will be exploring more facets of this issue over the next several weeks.
Be kind to yourself and others, breathe and let us know if you need anything.
Be kind to yourself and others, breathe and let us know if you need anything.
Terri and Lisa
If there is a topic you would like us to blog about,
just let us know.
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