Representation of Gender in the Media homework: Week 6

As the media industry plays such a significant role in shaping the dominant views of society, it also has a massive responsibility when it comes to the representation of men and women. What could media producers do to create a society where they is more equality (in terms of gender representation)?

Overall, the media can make the effort to better represent women and move on from the stereotypical image that they have created of them. Video games should start to encourage female protagonists and balance the strength that they represent in gender. Magazines should stop encouraging the 'perfect' image of a women and introduce stories about self acceptance and morality. As a whole, important figures in the media should start to use their voice in a positive way that will help to equalise men and women in the media. Actress Jennifer Lawrence is an example of a celebrity using their voice and becoming a spokesperson for change, writing an article about the gender pay gap after Sony's pay cheques for the actors of American Hustle were leaked and it was apparent that she was paid less than her male costars (http://www.lennyletter.com/work/a147/jennifer-lawrence-why-do-i-make-less-than-my-male-costars/). In general, the media should start to equalise men and women and present them as equal so that it will have the correct, positive influence on younger generations.