The Over-sexualization and Objectification of Women and Girls in the Media:
Leads to Harmful Stereotypes and a False Perception of the Power of the Genders
What is the Difference Between Sexuality and Sexualization?
Sexuality is when children acquire a healthy curiosity and understanding of their bodies. Sexualization happens when a person’s value comes from their sex appeal, or is held to narrow standards of attractiveness, says the American Psychological Association Task Force on the Sexualization of Girls.
It happens when a person is "sexually objectified" or made into a "thing" for others' sexual use. - It also refers to someone who has had sexuality imposed on them, like little girls portrayed as older and more mature.
"The problem with pornography is not that it shows too much of a person, but that it shows far too little."
- Pope John Paul II
When people think of the objectification of women and the perception that they are just objects for sexual gratification, they usually think of pornography. However, a more insidious and dangerous method is being used on the masses without them even realizing it... People are inundated with these sexual messages every day and across all media platforms.