Through their own eyes: How women perceive themselves in the shadow of the male gaze.
The male gaze, a concept that reflects the objectification of women from a heterosexual male perspective, is not confined to external observations. Its influence extends to how women themselves view and assess their identities, often unconsciously, in a world shaped by patriarchal norms and expectations.
Internalising the Male Gaze
From a young age, women are inundated with images and representations in media, art, and daily life that perpetuate the male gaze. The constant portrayal of women as objects of desire shapes their self-perception. As they internalise these images, they may come to see themselves through the lens of external expectations.
The Impact on Self-Esteem
The male gaze’s objectification can have a profound effect on women’s self-esteem. The pervasive portrayal of idealised beauty standards can lead women to believe that their worth is intricately tied to their appearance. This internalised gaze can result in self-doubt, body image issues, and a feeling of inadequacy.
The Struggle for Authenticity
In a society where the male gaze dominates, women often struggle to be authentic and self-assured. They may find themselves contending with societal expectations of how they should look, dress, and behave. This external pressure can lead women to question their own desires, preferences, and ambitions, as they may have been conditioned to prioritise the male gaze over their own needs.
Navigating Gender Roles
The male gaze plays a significant role in reinforcing traditional gender roles, with women often depicted as passive objects of desire. This influences how women perceive their roles and capabilities. The internalised gaze can lead women to second-guess their aspirations and limit their potential, as they may believe that success is defined by external validation rather than intrinsic worth. In fact, many measure their worth in reflection of that male gaze. It IS their worth, their value in the world.
Shaping Relationships
The male gaze can also impact women’s relationships. The expectation of fulfilling a particular aesthetic or behaving in a certain way can lead women to compromise their true selves in romantic relationships. They may prioritise external validation over their own desires and needs, perpetuating a cycle of objectification.
Breaking Free from the Internal Gaze
Recognising and challenging the internalised male gaze is a pivotal step towards personal growth and empowerment for women. Here are some strategies that can help women break free from this internalised perspective:
1. Self-awareness: Acknowledge the influence of the male gaze on self-perception. Understand that your worth is not defined by external expectations. It’s not defined by your attractiveness, desirability, usefulness, overperforming, utility, performance, sexual performance or anything else. You are inherently worthy.
2. Reclaiming agency: Embrace your agency and self-determination. Recognise that you have the power to define your own identity and prioritise your own desires and goals.
3. Redefining beauty: Challenge conventional beauty standards and embrace a more diverse and inclusive perspective of beauty. Appreciate the uniqueness of your own appearance and the beauty in being authentic.
4. Seeking support: Engage with supportive communities and individuals who encourage self-acceptance and self-love. Share your experiences and aspirations with others who understand and respect your journey.
5. Encouraging self-expression: Cultivate self-expression and creativity as a means to express your unique identity. Explore activities that make you feel authentic and fulfilled.
Conclusion
The male gaze is a pervasive force that not only impacts how women are perceived by others but also influences how they perceive themselves. The internalised gaze can lead to self-doubt, self-esteem issues, and a struggle to be authentic in a world dominated by external expectations. However, with self-awareness and a commitment to self-empowerment, women can break free from the internal gaze and define their identities on their own terms. It is a journey towards embracing authenticity and finding value within, independent of societal standards or the male gaze.
