Deconstructing Romance: A Content Analysis on Benevolent Sexism in Filipino Contemporary Romance Films

Document Types

Paper Presentation

School Name

Lyceum of the Philippines University Laguna

Track or Strand

Humanities and Social Science (HUMSS)

Research Advisor (Last Name, First Name, Middle Initial)

Vergara, Janelle

Start Date

25-6-2025 10:30 AM

End Date

25-6-2025 12:00 PM

Zoom Link/ Room Assignment

Zoom Link: https://zoom.us/j/98424473252?pwd=FwXRu0YCoemsGlIoz7ItYRGwViiW46.1 Meeting ID: 984 2447 3252 Passcode: 483035

Abstract/Executive Summary

The present study aimed to examine benevolent sexism in Filipino contemporary romance films, addressing a significant gap in the literature on gender dynamics in Filipino cinema. Employing thematic analysis, the research pursued three primary objectives: (1) defining and identifying benevolent sexism, (2) exploring how male and female characters either challenge or reinforce such sexism, and (3) analyzing the influence of cultural norms and societal expectations on these portrayals. By analyzing prominent films like "The Hows of Us," "My Ex and Whys," and "Rewind," the study revealed that relational feminine norms are often exploited in romantic relationships, perpetuating benevolent sexism.
/="/">/="/">
/="/">/="/">Benevolent sexism, defined as the idealization of traditional feminine roles, such as caregiving, emotional support, and deference to male authority, was frequently emphasized and romanticized within these films. The study found that such sexism is predominantly perpetuated in male and female character interactions and is rarely challenged. It highlighted how cultural norms contribute to the perpetuation of benevolent sexism, with deviations from traditional gender norms serving as rare challenges. This research calls for further studies to deepen understanding of gender dynamics and benevolent sexism in Filipino media representations.

Keywords

benevolent sexism; Filipino romance films; content analysis; media portrayals; cultural norms

Research Theme (for Paper Presentation and Poster Presentation submissions only)

Media and Philippine Studies (MPS)

Statement of Originality

yes

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Jun 25th, 10:30 AM Jun 25th, 12:00 PM

Deconstructing Romance: A Content Analysis on Benevolent Sexism in Filipino Contemporary Romance Films

The present study aimed to examine benevolent sexism in Filipino contemporary romance films, addressing a significant gap in the literature on gender dynamics in Filipino cinema. Employing thematic analysis, the research pursued three primary objectives: (1) defining and identifying benevolent sexism, (2) exploring how male and female characters either challenge or reinforce such sexism, and (3) analyzing the influence of cultural norms and societal expectations on these portrayals. By analyzing prominent films like "The Hows of Us," "My Ex and Whys," and "Rewind," the study revealed that relational feminine norms are often exploited in romantic relationships, perpetuating benevolent sexism.
/="/">/="/">
/="/">/="/">Benevolent sexism, defined as the idealization of traditional feminine roles, such as caregiving, emotional support, and deference to male authority, was frequently emphasized and romanticized within these films. The study found that such sexism is predominantly perpetuated in male and female character interactions and is rarely challenged. It highlighted how cultural norms contribute to the perpetuation of benevolent sexism, with deviations from traditional gender norms serving as rare challenges. This research calls for further studies to deepen understanding of gender dynamics and benevolent sexism in Filipino media representations.

https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/conf_shsrescon/2025/paper_mps/1