Psychological Implications of Sexism: A Critical Analysis of Plath's The Bell Jar from Fredrickson's Perspective of Objectification Theory

Abstract

This thesis delves into an in-depth analysis of Sylvia Plath's novel "The Bell Jar," with a specific focus on examining the prevalent sexism within American society during the 1950s. The primary objective is to understand how this deeply ingrained sexism affected the psychological well-being of women during that era. Employing a quantitative research approach, the study critically dissects the dialogues of the characters within the novel, utilizing language and representations to uncover the extent of sexist attitudes. By employing Fredrickson and Roberts' (1997) "Objectification Theory," the research aims to demonstrate how Esther, the novel's protagonist, experiences significant mental health challenges as a direct result of pervasive sexist norms. The thesis also investigates the lasting impact of stereotypes that were pervasive in the 1950s on Esther's mental health. Ultimately, this study offers a nuanced exploration of how the lens of objectification theory can be used to analyze sexism's profound influence on mental health, as seen through the lens of a young student's experiences.