Influence of Media and Culture on Self Image

Is culture today experiencing information overload leading to self confusion? Having access to information twenty-four hours a day does not necessarily have a positive impact on society and self image. Media content despite its public charge does not exactly mirror real self image. Mass communication with television ads and movies offer an unrealistic view of the everyday person in various aspects of life. Media can have a positive or negative influence on culture and the way people view their lives compared to those in the public eye. There is much speculation about how the media can affect self-concept, self-identities and self-evaluations. Media also has the power to sway beliefs, morals and behaviors. Research has shown how media content does not reflect reality in regard to who is represented, and how groups and situations are portrayed (Aubrey, 2007). Reality television is an excellent example of how someone can develop a negative self image of themselves. The television show The Real Housewives of New York is a good example. The women shown on this program are not like the average women. The profile of these women is they are usually wealthy, thin with perfect hair, skin and teeth. In addition, these women do not have to work to earn a living. The camera’s follow the cast around daily and record various aspects of their lives for all of America to see. They show the women shopping, and spending large amounts of money on clothes, jewelry and cars. If they want something the cost does not matter. Additionally, they show the women getting facial Botox, liposuction and other cosmetic procedures. After watching this show is would be understandable how the average women would have a negative image of what most women are like. The culture of the rich housewife is nothing similar to women who work and have to toil with a budget to control monthly expenses. The media portrays the issues these women have as issues most women have, which is far from reality. If

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