Yes - the increased use of technology and social media has
made the distribution of harmful content extremely easy so it seems that
pornography has become the new norm. In fact, popular culture is becoming porn
culture. This is harmful because the lines between our private and public lives
are becoming blurred. Very young girls (6-8 yrs), for example, are still
learning (from many media sources and boys) that their value is based on sexuality
and physical appearance. This mindset often leaves young people susceptible to
mental/physical health issues, predatory behaviour and harassment.
A porn culture is dangerous because it allows men to think
that objectifying women is how it is supposed to be - it turns a woman into a
‘thing’ that is only there to satisfy a man’s sexual urges (only for
hook-ups). This attitude
eliminates any need to connect with a partner either emotionally or intellectually. I think that this will have serious
consequences for many long- term relationships in the future (if any will exist
at all)….
Perhaps media literacy studies (early middle school) could
be used as a tool in empowering young people to think more critically about the
media they consume and to take control of their online persona and real life
behaviour.
You're right, the sexualization of society really IS a problem! It's disgusting to see how society has transformed women into mere objects who must have perfect bodies and comply to the sexual standards set by pornography. I think you're correct in saying that there will be serious consequences for long-term relationships in the future, but consider the adverse effects that it will have on men and women in general. Little boys and girls are growing up with distorted views of how women and men should behave and look in and out of the bedroom, and will most certainly raise great issues such as depression, eating disorders, and other harmful psychological problems.
ReplyDeleteThe sexualization of main stream society is definitely an extremely concerning issue, specifically for the female population, because of the mindset that has caused this shift in perspectives and attitudes. I feel that this sexualization definitely leads to objectification of the female population, which pushes societal morals in the wrong direction and can lead to further crimes such as human trafficking. Once a person is viewed as simply an object, rather than a mother, sister, or daughter, it's easier for her to be thought of as a product for purchase and sale.
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