In this 2019 issue of GQ magazine, British soccer player Raheem Sterling is portrayed in three stereotypical ways in which a male personal would be pictured. Using the Sex Role Perspective, this magazine cover helps the audience affirm these assumptions about male features.
A Sex Role Perspective
- Active Role
- In the image, Sterling is making eye contact with the audience which portrays a sense of power and authority that is greatly associated with men. This eye contact allows Sterling to play an active role within the cover and represents the stereotype that men have control.
- Dominant Stance
- In addition to eye contact, Sterling is also in a powerful and assertive stance. This draws the audience to the idea that Sterling is confident and has the ability to be successful; thus, possessing qualities strongly related to a male figure.
- Wings
- Furthermore, Sterling is presented as an angel with wings. This costume choice, along with the tag line of “Guardian Angel,” shows that Sterling is a protector. It reinforces the stereotype that men do the saving of others and are the heroes in the end.
Shared by: Sydney Zima
Image Credit: https://www.thefashionisto.com/photo-shoot/raheem-sterling-2019-british-gq/