Popular Culture's Perceptions Of Sexuality And Elderly People
Complete a web search to find a cartoon or advertisement in the popular media that conveys an image or message related to sexuality and older people. Examine the medium's portrayal of sexuality in older adults by answering the following questions. Also, attach or provide the url of your cartoon or advertisement with your assignment submission. Make sure that you choose a cartoon that will provide ample information for you to write about.
Answer the following questions. Be sure to use two references, other than your media item, to support your work. Your job is to convince me that you have a clear understanding of the issues surrounding sexuality and the elderly.
What is the message of the popular media cartoon, or advertisement?
What examples of physiological, psychological, or social aspects of sexual development are conveyed? Explain. Be sure to address each of the 3 aspects in your discussion.
Here is an example of a cartoon that can be used to explore these questions:
The cartoon shows a woman sitting at a table with a man. The woman is holding a glass of wine and looking at the man with a smile. The man is holding a remote control and looking at the woman with a worried expression. The caption of the cartoon reads, "The Post-Menopause Early Warning System."
This cartoon can be interpreted in a number of ways. On one level, it is a humorous depiction of the physical changes that can occur during menopause. The woman in the cartoon is smiling and appears to be enjoying herself, while the man is looking worried. This suggests that the woman is comfortable with her changing body and sexuality, while the man is not.
On a deeper level, the cartoon can be seen as a commentary on the social expectations of sexuality in later life. The man in the cartoon is worried that the woman's menopause will mean that she is no longer interested in sex. This suggests that he believes that women's sexuality is tied to their fertility, and that once women reach menopause, they are no longer sexually desirable.
The cartoon also reflects the cultural context in which it was created. In many cultures, there is a stigma associated with older people's sexuality. This stigma can lead to older people feeling ashamed of their sexuality, or to them being denied access to sexual health care. The cartoon challenges this stigma by depicting an older woman who is confident and sexually active.
Overall, this cartoon provides a thoughtful and humorous look at sexuality and aging. It challenges stereotypes about older people's sexuality, and it reflects the cultural context in which it was created.
Here are some references that you may find helpful:
- "Sexuality and Aging: A Lifespan Approach." By Linda S. Richter, Susan K. Peterson, and Robert H. Davis.
- "The Social Construction of Sexuality in Later Life." By Lynette J. Clemmens and Susan H. McDaniel.
- "The Media's Portrayal of Sexuality and Aging." By Lynnette J. Clemmens and Susan H. McDaniel.