Events in the Modern World that Reflects the Progressiveness of Issue Regarding Sex Education, Gender Wage Gap and Advertisement Forms Associated with Women.
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Introduction
The stereotypical nature of society regarding women and the traditions surrounding them and their roles in society have evolved. There has been a significant change in many life aspects that initially demeaned women’s capabilities and well-being. The three main issues that have experienced progress over time are the gender wage gap, advertisement forms regarding women, and sex education. In the current world, more women have joined forces and established programs that aim to fight discrimination against them in various fields in society. This paper will look into the gender wage gap, sex education, and advertisement forms and their progress in supporting women and their roles in society. It explains the changes witnessed regarding the main issue mentioned above.
The wage gap issue has challenged nearly all women in various labor market sectors. Over the years, employers have been known to pay lesser wagers to their female employees than the male employees for the same roles. They are shortchanged in terms of their performance bonuses despite performing equally as men or even better than men in their workplaces. However, the trends witnessed in the current market have shown that many organizations have adopted policies and strategies that promote employees equality within organizations. Employers have started recognizing and appreciating the contribution of women in their organizations. More women are taking over senior positions in organizations and participating in major decision-making processes (Blau & Kahn, 2017). It means that women and men in the labor market experience growth in their different professions at the same rate. The promotion opportunities offered to both genders result in nearly the same salaries and benefits. For this reason, the gender wage gap has narrowed.
The number of hours worked by employees determines their pay and benefits. In the past, women were forced to split their time between their profession, caregiving, and unpaid home obligation. This aspect of their lives lowers their pay and benefits since they get fewer working hours at their disposal than men, hence widening the wage gap. In the modern world, more women are choosing not to have children. This decision enables working women to focus on their careers and devote all their time to them. In addition, gender roles, especially at home, have changed. Men are now performing the unpaid obligations at home and becoming primary caregivers (Blau & Kahn, 2017). These trends witnessed in modern society have significantly narrowed the wage gap.
Sex education is also one issue that has evolved for the better. Initially, sex education was prohibited in most learning institutions in America. Most parents considered Sex talks taboo hence avoiding the topic (Naezer et al., 2017). Consequently, children, especially teenagers, were in the dark about their sexuality, perception of women, and what to do with the changes they experienced in their bodies. This ignorance and neglect by parents and teachers contributed to the high level of teen pregnancies, sexually transmitted diseases, and rape cases seen in society. The issue has since evolved and taken a different route altogether. Most learning institutions have made sex education mandatory (Naezer et al., 2017). Parents are also more open to their children and discuss sex, respect for women, and contraceptive methods. For this reason, the rates of teenage pregnancies, sexually transmitted diseases, and rape cases have reduced significantly. Moreover, contraception methods have gained popularity in society, and women are not ashamed to adopt them as they plan their future.
The advertisement methods adopted by various institutions and organizations have undergone a complete transformation. In the past, most advertisements projected women as sexual objects that men could access whenever they wanted to (Anand & Shrma, 2019). Women were portrayed as men subjects, with no voice or opinion whatsoever. On the other hand, advertisements associated men with strength, rationality, and a higher power. Women were viewed as inferior to men. More focus was put on their bodies rather than their capabilities and talents. Most advertisements displayed less clothed women to promote different agendas, especially on magazines and televisions (Anand & Shrma, 2019). These advertisements insult and degrade women in all kinds of manners. They convey the message that there is nothing beyond a woman’s body. However, strategies and policies employed by feminist movements and the government have gradually transformed the advertisement techniques. In the modern world, advertisements portray women as strong influential, and just as equal and capable as men. Organizations that adopt advertising methods that degrade women and glorify men face dire consequences. The government ensures that such companies are punished accordingly through penalties, suspension, or complete closure.
Conclusion
The growth experienced in different aspects of life regarding women’s inclusivity and empowerment is undeniable. The number of women in the workforce is impeccable. This progress is a motivation to society and women as well. Women are encouraged to venture into different professions of their liking and not be shaken by societal expectations. In addition, men are also challenged and believe that gender should not be an issue when it comes to professionalism. More men are open to working with women and even letting them take the lead because they acknowledge their capabilities. Organizations need to develop more strategies that encourage women empowerment and equality. Members of society should also take it upon themselves to create awareness of the significance of equality and the need to respect all people regardless of their gender. These actions will help society achieve a gender-neutral environment, thus growing economically and development-wise.
References
Anand, H. L., & Shrma, A. (2019). The portrayal of Women in Advertising with Special Reference To Television. History Research Journal, 5(6), 1054-1079.
Blau, F. D., & Kahn, L. M. (2017). The gender wage gap: Extent, trends, and explanations. Journal of economic literature, 55(3), 789-865.
Naezer, M., Rommes, E., & Jansen, W. (2017). Empowerment through sex education? Rethinking paradoxical policies. Sex Education, 17(6), 712-728.
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