Increased Effect of Misogynistic Sexism on Women’s Physical & Psychological Health
Abstract
Misogyny, along with internalized misogyny, can be defined as the hatred or devaluation of women, through both the perspective of both men and women. It is explored in this literature review through psychological, cultural, and societal dimensions. The increased abundance of misogyny present in everyday media and the extent to which it affects women’s body image dissatisfaction and increasing bodily dysmorphia are both topics studied. Particular focuses are set on media and technological advances which amplify and promote sexist behaviours and speech, including studies analysing increased sexist music prevalence and online pornography users over time. The subject of objectification of women and the effect of this on the psychological harms of women will be explored, as well as the “backlash” movement and details regarding disordered eating following (internalized) misogyny. Misogynistic influences and impacts on men will also be briefly addressed. Penultimately, the paper covers both the potential psychological but also physical harms imposed on women experiencing misogyny, addressing not only the issue but also promoting the urgency for media literacy and feminism awareness.
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