Location
Fenn Tower Ballroom
Presentation Type
Poster Session
Start Date
4-11-2014 4:00 PM
End Date
4-11-2014 4:50 PM
Abstract
Objectification theory is a framework to understand shared social experiences of women as a consequence of being acculturated in a society that sexualizes women’s bodies. Recently, scholars have recognized that women of color may have experiences uniquely different than those of mainstream society (i.e., White women) for whom the theory was developed. While the theory takes into account body shape- and size-related concerns, there is a lack of focus on skin tone. This paper reviews the literature on colorism (i.e., within-group prejudice toward darker-complexioned members of ethnic minority communities) to explore the applicability of objectification theory to Mexican American women.
Objectification Theory and the Significance of Skin Tone among Mexican Americans
Fenn Tower Ballroom
Objectification theory is a framework to understand shared social experiences of women as a consequence of being acculturated in a society that sexualizes women’s bodies. Recently, scholars have recognized that women of color may have experiences uniquely different than those of mainstream society (i.e., White women) for whom the theory was developed. While the theory takes into account body shape- and size-related concerns, there is a lack of focus on skin tone. This paper reviews the literature on colorism (i.e., within-group prejudice toward darker-complexioned members of ethnic minority communities) to explore the applicability of objectification theory to Mexican American women.
