Humanity Stripped: The Consequences of Self-Objectification
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Authors
Norkowski, Mich
Issue Date
2023-04-14
Type
Capstone
Language
en
Keywords
sexual objectification , self-objectification , idealized beauty , patriarchy , Indexing test (added 5/25/2023)
Alternative Title
Abstract
The sexual objectification of women is widespread and pervasive in North American culture. Sexual objectification has direct and indirect negative effects on women's health and well-being in psychological, physical, emotional, and financial domains. Constant exposure to sexually objectifying media and interpersonal interactions can cause girls and women to internalize an objectified view of themselves, a process known as self-objectification. Self-objectification has several intermediary consequences which have been found to contribute to depressive symptoms, disordered eating behaviours, and sexual dysfunction. This paper explores the process and impacts of sexual objectification and self-objectification in order to raise awareness within the therapist community, as well as contribute to greater societal change. Current mitigators and treatment approaches are outlined, and a therapeutic guideline is offered.