Women’s Objectification in Pakistan’s Entertainment Industry: Perceived Effects on Female Intentions to Enter the Media Profession
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32350/mcr.61.10Keywords:
Objectification, Entertainment Industry, Gender Stereotypes, Media Representation, PakistanAbstract
This research examines the objectification of women in Pakistan's entertainment industry and its psychological, professional, and societal effects on potential female entrants. Drawing upon Fredrickson's Objectification Theory and Feminist and Framing Theories, the research demonstrates how women are frequently reduced to their physical appearance in television, advertisements, and films. The study aims to investigate how women are objectified in Pakistan's show business sector, including electronic media and ads. The study aims to investigate how women are objectified in Pakistan’s entertainment sector, including television, film, advertising, and digital media. It further examines the perceived effects of such objectification on women’s self-esteem, body image, and overall well-being. With quantitative analysis based on survey data gathered from Sialkot female media students using random sampling technique, results show that objectification leads to women experiencing low self-esteem, body image concerns, and discouragement for pursuing the field of media. Policy reforms, media literacy, and representative inclusivity are urged by the study to address objectification and ensure gender equality in media professions.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Khadija Ishrat Bhalli, Hafiz Muhammad Huzaifa Shakeel, Rooma Shehzadi
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