Sexual Objectification in Music Videos on Self-Perception among Lead City University Female Undergraduates

Abstract

The constant barrage of images in today’s world can significantly
impact how people view themselves, particularly for young women
exposed to media saturated with unrealistic beauty standards.
Exposure to sexual objectifying content in music videos may not only
influence the way these women think and feel about their bodies but
may actually cause them to perceive their bodies differently. The study
examined the influence of sexual objectification in music videos on selfperception among Lead City University female undergraduates.
Feminist Theory and Social Cognitive theory provided the theoretical
framework for the study. Descriptive survey research design was
adopted, and 370 respondents were randomly selected to form the
sample. A self-structured questionnaire was used to gather the data.
The collected data were presented and analysed using descriptive and
linear regression. The results obtained revealed that majority of the
respondents (68.1%) agree that there are various forms of sexual
objectification such as women shown in revealing clothing, camera
angles in music videos focusing on women’s bodies rather than their
faces and women in music videos being portrayed in sexually
suggestive poses. The study revealed that majority (76.6%) of the
respondents perceive themselves moderately, they think very well of
themselves, but in moderation, a balanced self-perception. The study recommends incorporating value lessons in course units in academic majors like Theatre and Arts, to educate potential producers in the industry on proper treatment and portrayal of women.