Gender and Media

The intersectionality of how the media presents and portrays body image, sexuality, and gender is complex and longstanding. The media often perpetuates harmful images of women, reinforcing traditional and conservative gender stereotypes. Based on the themes identified in the recent literature, this chapter addresses several domains of gender and sexuality in the media. First, we discuss how the media can contribute to negative body image and dissatisfaction. Second, we address the sexualization and objectification of women in the media. Finally, we discuss the portrayal of gender in the media and how gender violence is reported. We also provide recommendations for how mental health and media practitioners can address such inequities and misrepresentations in the media to improve reporting practices and psychological functioning.