Media Representations of Gender

Media representations of gender refer to how men, women, and gender-diverse individuals are portrayed in television, movies, advertisements, and other media. These portrayals influence societal perceptions by reinforcing or challenging stereotypes—such as women being shown as caregivers or men as strong and assertive. Sometimes, media depict gender in ways that reflect cultural norms, but they can also promote diversity and equality through more varied and nuanced representations. Overall, media plays a powerful role in shaping our understanding of gender identities, roles, and expectations, impacting individual self-views and social attitudes.