Disney Movies Affecting Children

Are Disney Movies Hurting Children?
Many remember the Disney movies from childhood, but does everyone feel influenced by them, even into adulthood? Today, the famous Disney movie franchise has portrayed to many generations of young children and young adults that falling in love can happen at a simple glance, and is the solution to the problems of any protagonist. Furthermore, not only has the Disney franchise ruined the idea of love for young girls, but are giving young boys an unrealistic goal and developing the idea that masculinity is strong, while femininity is weak and in need of saving. As well, body image can be heavily influenced for all genders, setting unattainable standards for both young girls and boys. Even though Disney movies

Should Disney movies be banned for all children? Of course not, but we can encourage juveniles to analyse what they view from a young age. The responsibility to teach these skills can be entrusted to parents. Matthew Johnson, the Director of Education for the Media Awareness Network tells parents that “there may be no escaping the ‘princess phase,’ but teaching kids to view media critically can help make sure your princess doesn’t grow up expecting a handsome prince - or a fairy godmother - to solve all her problems” (Johnson 35). He encourages parents to allow their children to enjoy the entertainment these movies give, but discourage the idolization of the characters. An outright ban towards this media may simply backfire considering it may only make it appear more enticing. Although adolescents may begin the scrutiny of the Disney movie cast on their own, parents can help strengthen and promote these skills by having simple conversations and asking questions such as “Is it worth it to give up your voice and your family for a boy, the way Ariel does?” (Johnson 36). With the help of parents, guardians and adults, all children from children to adolescents can be encouraged and inspired to evaluate the media they are being