Media models and objectification of men and women

Abstract

Literature on objectification has largely demonstrated the relationship between exposure to objectified media models and body dissatisfaction for women. The aim of the research presented here is to extend the study of the consequences of such exposure - examining both male and female models - in relation to psychological well-being, self-esteem and endorsement of sexist attitudes. 166 university students (51.8% male) participated in the study. Results showed that exposure to objectified male models decreases men’s well-being, while exposure to objectified female models not only decreases women’s well-being but also their perception of attractiveness and social esteem. Furthermore, female objectification influences men’s sexism, increasing hostility towards women and at the same time reducing the hostility toward their own gender. The implications are discussed.