Fox's hit TV show, House had a female dean of medicine up until recently. Being a true fan of the show, I've seen every episode at least twice. Dr. Lisa Cuddy, is a gendered body and has always dressed very sexy. Low cut tops, tight skirts, heels - all while being an excellent mother, fabulous boss, and everything in between. The producers of House, I believe, have purposefully portrayed her this way. Think of this. Since Dr. Cuddy has a very high position in the hospital, the other male doctors probably believe they could bargain better deals with insurance companies, tone Dr. House down, and even be a better doctor. Because she dresses sexier than all the doctors on the show, she portrays a "Yes I am a woman but I can manage this hospital, juggle 20 different things in my life, and diagnose patients perfectly while looking absolutely gorgeous." Am I the only one that thinks this is empowering? In this picture, Dr. Cuddy has a perfect tint of red lipstick and eye make up that makes her eyes look enticing and oh so powerful. Because her hair is in a poofed half up hairstyle, she looks serious but not as serious as a slicked back tight ballerina bun. Her pearls are still classy which off sets her low cut shirt. The button at the bottom of the plunging neckline sends a fantasy type signal to all male doctors. They might fantasize unbuttoning the button to see what else is in store, it's a teaser. Well, maybe just for House it is. While dressing nice under her white doctor's coat, the pocket protector shows she is still very serious about her job and getting her job done. This can also be an example of what Susan Bordo talks about. I can see many women in higher positions dressing nicer so male employees under them respect them. While it makes a larger hole for sexual harassment and assault, to most men and women it is more empowering because it shows that she is comfortable with her body.
Good post. I don't watch House, but I don't think that any doctor, especially a female should be dressed like that to work. In reality, it is a violation of the dress code and could result in a written referral.
ReplyDeleteThis also demonstrates the gender role answer the power it has. As a female, you won't be given much power, but as a doctor you are given a higher priority and power. However, dressing inappropriately can make you lose that power also.
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