Sexual objectification: advancements and avenues for future research

Abstract

Starting from the formulation of Objectification Theory, research has widely investigated the causes and consequences of sexual objectification. In the current article, we discuss three issues that we think are central in the current literature and point to new research directions. First, we highlight the need to further investigate differences and similarities with dehumanization; second, we suggest future interventions to target men and promote different values from those imposed by hegemonic masculinity; third, we suggest going beyond the gender binary perspective adopted so far to include the experience of gender nonconforming individuals. Overall, despite the impressive amount of work done, more research is needed to better understand this process with the aim of finding ways to overcome its consequences.