Application Exercise: Advertising and Women’s Body Image

Our focus this week is on sexuality and society. One important agent of socialization that contributes to our cultural views on sexuality is media and advertising. For this assignment, we will examine their influence on norms of women’s body image, how this potentially affects women, and what implications this situation has for society on a macro level.

Instructions:Below are two video clips extracted from a series entitled “Killing Us Softly” by Dr. Jean Kilbourne. The content focuses on advertising effects on the portrayal of women in society. View the videos, and take note of anything that stands out for you.

Killing Us Softly 3

Killing Us Softly 4

Search the web for an advertisement for a company that uses a woman to try and sell the product. Take note of the web site link.

Compose a two to four page essay that answers the following questions:

When watching the video clips on “Killing Us Softly,” what stood out for you?

Do you agree or disagree with the claims made by Dr. Kilbourne? Explain.

Provide the web site link for your advertisement.

What is the product being promoted?

Describe how the woman is being used to sell the product?

Does the advertisement portray women in a positive or negative way? Explain.

In your estimation, how are women portrayed in advertising, media, and movies?

What implications, if any, does this have for larger society?

Support your position.

Provide any other insights or thoughts on this topic.