Stereotypes: The Role Of Gender Identity In The Media

There are many aspects of life that I stop thinking about until they are brought to my attention. Amongst these are breathing, blinking, and my blind obedience to the gender codes. Interacting with those that show the characteristics of the opposite group to which society places them or present themselves as belonging to no binary group is left as a confusing/ awkward experience as there are much fewer exemplars for those in society. The media subliminally asserts its power over my interactions with others beginning with my first encounter with them. When I shake someone’s hand and they are male I often feel a strong grip, firm hold, and direct eye contact is maintained. This air of confidence and control demonstrated by men through handshakes is heavily reflected in the media. They are often displayed as being present and aware of their surroundings which is illustrated by the direct eye contact maintained while shaking hands. …show more content…
Since I have been subconsciously obeying the codes of gender, my interactions with others have gone as expected within the context of the media. As above stated, men are known to give direct eye contact whilst I tend to daydream and thus have a dazed look in my eyes or have my head down as I walk (i.e. my head is canted). This, with respect to Goffman’s code of gender, allows them to perceive me as out of touch with my surroundings and seeking to withdraw from them. As discussed above, there is a male-female relationship of subordination depicted in the media. A male often folds his arms in advertisements which serve to illustrate intimidation and strength; however, when I hold my arm, through the analysis of Goffman it can be interpreted by others as an attempt at protecting myself as if my body is fragile and needs to be supported. Alternatively, holding my arm can also be seen as trying to hide as analogous to a girl that peers from behind