A UNESCO-sponsored study was conducted to systematize, analyze, and evaluate the research about the interrelationships between mass media and the status of women on the basis of currently available international literature. The study sought to determine which aspects of women's media roles have been frequently researched, on which continents and in which countries concern is shown, what major conclusions may be drawn from the evidence, and what research and policy implications emerge. The study examined the images of women in advertising, radio, television, film, newspapers, and women's magazines, and the professional status of women in the advertising and film industries, in broadcasting, and in newspaper and magazine publishing. It was concluded that media images define women within the confines of traditional domestic roles and sexual-appeal constraints, insufficiently counteracted by alternative portrayals. In addition, women are underrepresented in status and power positions in the media. (DF)