Course:WMST307:Student Pages:Shana Gould

Sexualization is regarded as the process of becoming sexual in nature or as exhibiting what is considered sexual behavior (Thompson 2010). The frame of reference used to judge sexual or non-sexual behavior is based on adult understandings of adult sexuality (Thompson 2010). Sexualization generally carries a negative connotation and is often applied to young girls or women (Thompson 2010; Wouters 2010). Thompson (2010) notes that “This message is revealed in fears of children adopting markers of adult sexuality (in clothing, make-up, dance…” (p. 395). A 2007 report by the APA was highly influential in propagating the idea of the sexualization of girls. Some of its key arguments were that sexualization objectifies girls, and that it is inappropriate for people of that age to exhibit what is considered sexual behavior (Wouters 2010). Thompson (2010) however, disputes this notion, shedding light on the fact that sexualization is not necessarily negative, and is dependent on the social context. For example, sexualized behavior in adults is viewed as normal, but not in children. Thompson (2010) also discusses ways in which sexualized behavior in children can be similar to acting; that is, instead of a particular set of beliefs or attitudes that reflect a sexualized nature. Thompson (2010) notes “[C]hildren’s imitation of adult sexualized behaviors could be considered a performance of adulthood (without children understanding the implications or adult context of that behavior” (p. 396). Wouters (2010) also sheds light on the fact that during one particular time period sexual behavior was acceptable, but that a type of desexualization in the XVIII and XIX century led to negative beliefs and views about sexuality. Wouters (2010) also notes how the concept of sexualization is particularly attacked in North America, largely influenced by the porn industry. In other parts of the world sexualization does not carry such negative connotations (Wouters 2010).

Work Cited

Wouters, C. (2010). Sexualization: Have sexualization processes changed direction? Sexualities. 13 (6), 723-741.

Thompson, K. (2010). Because looks can be deceiving: media alarm and the sexualization of childhood-do we know what we mean? Journal of Gender Studies. 19(4), 395-400.