PSYC FPX 2800 assessment 4

Abstract

This essay discusses the sexual activities presented in the Fifty Shades trilogy between the characters Anastasia Steele (Ana) and Christian Grey. Ana, a senior college student in literature and a virgin, meets Christian, a young entrepreneur, and both are drawn to one another. Christian takes Ana into his world of bondage, dominance, sadism, and masochism (BDSM) by presenting her with a contract and a special room in his home that is full of BDSM tools. The essay discusses the acceptance or deviance of such behavior and how it affects society, especially in media representation.

Sexual Behavior

Sexual activity involves people’s preferred sexual behaviors, which can be classified as normal or deviant. Christian’s BDSM activities, which are introduced to Ana in the trilogy, are an example of deviant sexual activity because of their perceived abnormality and uneasiness. Ana’s shock at seeing Christian’s playroom and her subsequent uneasiness point to the deviation from social norms. Christian’s demand for a contract and non-disclosure agreement also highlight the acknowledgment of the behavior’s deviance.

Bondage Dominance Sadism Masochism (BDSM)

BDSM activities consist of power play and sensory experiences, usually entailing restraints and physical sensations. Christian’s pleasure in having dominance over Ana and Ana’s unease about the intensity of BDSM reflect the nuances of power dynamics and trust in the relationship. In spite of Ana’s initial interest, the experience itself results in their relationship breaking apart.

Bondage Dominance Sadism Masochism and the Media

Media depictions of BDSM, like the Fifty Shades trilogy, tend to show such practices in a bad light, spreading misconceptions and stigmatization of BDSM. According to critics, such depictions idealize abuse and spread dangerous stereotypes. Yet, BDSM practitioners insist on ensuring consent and trust during their activities, which are usually misinterpreted by the media.

Impact on Society Based on Media Portrayal of BDSM

The media’s depiction of BDSM has the potential to shape society’s attitudes and actions, both negatively and positively. Although the Fifty Shades trilogy raised interest and interest in BDSM, it also spread harmful stereotypes and misinformation. Inadequate correct information could cause shame, loneliness, or even unsafe practices in people investigating BDSM.

Bondage Dominance Sadism Masochism and the Media – Abnormal and Deviant

In spite of societal stigma and media hype, BDSM is a legitimate sexual expression for most people. Misinformation and stigma about BDSM prevent understanding and acceptance. Proper information and honest communication are essential in eliminating myths and minimizing stigma related to non-conventional sexual activities.

Conclusion

The media depiction of sexual practices, including the Fifty Shades trilogy, shapes people’s attitudes and opinions about atypical practices like BDSM. Even though media depiction reinforces stigma and misconceptions, people ought to access correct information from credible sources in order to make informed choices regarding their sexual habits and preferences.

PSYC FPX 2800 Assessment 4 Sexual Behaviors 

Leistner, C. E., & Mark, K. P. (2016). Fifty shades of sexual health and BDSM identity messaging: A thematic analysis of the fifty shades series. Sexuality & Culture, 20(3), 464-485. doi:http://dx.doi.org.library.capella.edu/10.1007/s12119-016-9337-2.

Liebert, M. (n.d.). Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers | News. Home.liebertpub.com. Retrieved from: https://home.liebertpub.com/news/how-do-young-women-view-the-relationship-in-fifty-shades-of-grey/1767.

Taylor and Francis. (2012). BDSM Disclosure and Stigma Management: Identifying Opportunities for Sex Education. American Journal of Sexuality Education. Retrieved from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3382736/.

PSYC FPX 2800 Assessment 4 Sexual Behaviors

TheFreeDictionary.com. (2019). sexual behavior. Retrieved from: https://medicaldictionary.thefreedictionary.com/sexual+behavior.

Westen, J., & Hawkins, D. (2015). ‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ Will Lead to Spike in Abuse of Women. CNS News. Retrieved from: https://www.cnsnews.com/commentary/john-henry-westen/fifty-shades-grey-will-lead-spike-abuse-women.