Media Representation: Power And Responsibility Of Shaping Gender Perceptions

As a young woman navigating the complexities of today's world, I am acutely aware of the power that media holds in shaping societal norms and perceptions. Growing up, the disconnect between the women I saw on screen and the dynamic, multifaceted women I knew in real life was striking. This gap isn't just a personal observation; it's a reflection of a broader systemic issue in media representation. The stories we tell, the characters we create, and the narratives we promote have profound implications for gender equality and women's empowerment.

The Current State Of Media Representation
Despite progress in many areas, women remain underrepresented and often stereotypically portrayed in media. The Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media reports that women constitute only 37 per cent of speaking roles in films, a figure that starkly contrasts with their real-world presence. This disparity extends to television, news, and digital platforms, reinforcing outdated stereotypes and limiting perceptions of what women can achieve.

The recent UN Women report underscores this issue, revealing that only 24 per cent of the people heard, read about, or seen in newspapers, television, and radio news are women. This underrepresentation is not just a numbers game; it perpetuates stereotypes that shape public perception and self-perception among women.

Recent Global Milestones: Changing The Narrative
Yet, we are witnessing a shift in this narrative. The ongoing Olympics serve as a powerful example of gender parity, with equal representation among athletes for the first time. Female athletes like Indian shooter Manu Bhaker and American gymnast Simone Biles are not only breaking records but also redefining societal expectations. Manu Bhaker’s journey from a small town in Haryana to the global stage exemplifies resilience and breaking barriers. Simone Biles, despite immense pressure and personal struggles, continues to push the boundaries of excellence in gymnastics. These athletes are more than just sports icons; they are symbols of possibility and change, inspiring millions worldwide.

The Impact Of Media Portrayals On Gender Perceptions
The way women are depicted in media has far-reaching implications. These portrayals shape societal attitudes towards women, influence public policy, and impact women's self-esteem and career aspirations. Here are some key effects:

Perpetuation Of Gender Stereotypes: Media representations often reinforce traditional gender roles, limiting perceptions and opportunities for women. This perpetuation confines women to narrow roles and hinders progress towards gender equality.

Influence On Self-Perception: Constant exposure to unrealistic and stereotypical portrayals negatively affects women's self-esteem and body image. The American Psychological Association notes that the sexualisation of women in media contributes to self-objectification, leading to issues such as eating disorders, depression, and low self-esteem.

Impact On Career Choices: Media portrayals influence career aspirations. A study in the journal "Sex Roles" found that girls exposed to gender-stereotypical media content are less likely to pursue careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields.

Shaping Public Policy And Attitudes: Media plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion and policy. Underrepresentation or misrepresentation of women affects how their issues are perceived and addressed, leading to inadequate support for policies promoting gender equality.

Promoting Positive And Diverse Representations
To counteract the negative impacts of media portrayals, it is essential to promote positive and diverse representations of women. Here are some strategies:

Inclusive Storytelling: Media creators must prioritise inclusive storytelling that reflects the diversity of women's experiences. This includes showcasing women in various roles, from leadership positions to everyday heroes, and highlighting their contributions across different fields.

Gender Parity In Media Production: Increasing the number of women in media production roles, such as directors, writers, and producers, can lead to more authentic and varied portrayals. Data from the Center for the Study of Women in Television and Film shows that films with at least one woman director or writer feature significantly more female characters.

Challenging Stereotypes: Media content should actively challenge and dismantle harmful stereotypes. Creating complex, multidimensional female characters and avoiding tropes that limit women's roles are essential steps.

Media Literacy Education: Promoting media literacy among audiences helps them critically analyze and challenge the representations they see. Media literacy programs can empower individuals to demand better portrayals and support content that promotes gender equality.

Supporting Independent Media: Independent media outlets often lead the way in providing diverse and innovative content. Supporting these platforms can amplify voices that are often marginalized in mainstream media.

Media has the power to shape perceptions and drive social change. By promoting positive and diverse representations of women, we can challenge stereotypes, boost women's self-esteem, and inspire future generations to pursue their dreams without limitations. Achieving gender equality in media representation is not just a moral imperative but a crucial step towards a more inclusive and equitable society. As media creators, consumers, and policymakers, we must work together to create a landscape that truly reflects the diversity and potential of all individuals.

The stories we tell today will shape the world we live in tomorrow. By committing to more inclusive and accurate portrayals of women, we can build a better future for everyone.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publication.

Harshita Jain

Guest Author The author is the Director at MASH Project Foundation.