Stereotypes in the Media

Many stereotypes occur in the media in a variety of forms. According to the Media Awareness Network, "Stereotypes act like codes that give audiences a quick, common understanding of a person or group of people, usually relating to their class, ethnicity or race, gender, sexual orientation, social role or occupation." Stereotypes are everywhere in the media and influence the general public negatively. For example, women have become stereotyped in the media as tall, thin, and flawless. Although many see this as a stereotype, it still affects the way many women see themselves. This causes many cases of depression, low self-esteem, and unhealthy eating habits such as anorexia or bulemia. Studies show that the diet industry is worth 40 to 100 billion a year and that 90% of women are dissatisfied by their overall appearance (Media Awareness Network).

Another less known stereotype in the media focuses on men as being aggressive, scary, unemotional, powerful, overly muscular, and lustful. This also promotes negative effects in men and can lead to depression, low self esteem, and unhealthy habits such as steroids or other supplements. Women and children become affected by this stereotype as well. In a study by Children Now, one third of the tested children had never seen a man working in the home on TV. This can leave lasting impressions on children of the role of the father.