International Journal of Academic Research in Business and Social Sciences

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The Representation of Women in Online Advertisements: Challenging or Perpetuating Gender Stereotypes?

Open access

Nooraileen Ibrahim, Ahmad Muhyiddin B Yusof, Nurul Shima Taharuddin, Gladys Tagie, P Dhayapari, Perumal , Jeyamahla A/P Veeravagu

Pages 142-156 Received: 03 May, 2023 Revised: 03 Jun, 2023 Published Online: 04 Jul, 2023

http://dx.doi.org/10.46886/IJARBSS/v13-i7/8717
Nowadays almost everyone uses the Internet to search for various types of information. As a result, various websites offering a multitude of services and products are found online. Numerous websites are found to provide information online because all types of information can easily be found online. This paper is a study on online advertisements in Malaysia and the way gender is represented. This study has found that there is stereotypical representation of women as being less successful, subservient and in other less flattering terms. It is recommended that women be portrayed in a positive light and should be acknowledged for their respective contribution to the community. This in turn, will create a favorable impression of women and earn the respect of the community which will tear down the traditional misconception about the role of women in the society. This study is important in highlighting the differences of gender representation found in advertisements and the effects on the perception of the readers. Violence and discrimination against women can also be prevented with the presence of gender equality in advertising. Moreover, a positive, equal, and respectful relationship can be fostered while stereotyped representation of gender roles can be prevented.
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