Monika Bartyzel's Negative Effects Of Princess Culture In Young Girls

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From Disney’s magical movies to the myriad of fictional character merchandise, the Disney Princess franchise has impacted the lives of many children; specifically, young girls. Some individuals worry that the princess culture lifestyle can be dangerous for the behavioral development and self-esteem of young children. Other individuals defend the princess lifestyle and view it merely as an interest. The indulgence of princess culture is possible when it is explored in moderation with the accompaniment of other interests and activities. Still, the effects of princess culture on gender roles and self-image is a controversial topic which is on the rise as new princesses and fairy tales are developed. In response to this controversy, Monika …show more content…

Many individuals agree with Bartyzel’s argument that princess culture has a negative effect on self-esteem and that it adds to gender norms. Furthermore, there are numerous studies which favor Bartyzel’s argument against princess culture. For instance, a study conducted by Brigham Young University found that “engaging with Disney princess culture could make young children more susceptible to gender stereotypes” and could specifically affect young girls’ body self-esteem and confidence levels (Salyer, 2016). However, not everyone agrees with Bartyzel that the effects of princess culture are as serious as they appear to …show more content…

Additionally, gender roles derive from numerous places, not just the Disney princess franchise. As Brandie Weikle, the host of The New Family Podcast and editor of thenewfamily.com, mentioned “others question why Disney, in particular, is called on the mat for its princess products when there’s a frothy abundance of dresses and tiaras from Barbie Princess, for example, available everywhere from toy store shelves to YouTube” (Weikle, 2006). However, the effect of princess culture goes beyond young girls. For instance, in the previously mentioned study conducted by Brigham Young University, it was found that when it comes to boys, the influence of princess culture could help improve self-esteem (Salyer, 2016). As a parenting expert, Brandie Weikle suggested that it is okay to raise girls who enjoy partaking in princess culture, but parents need to help their children understand how to be self-reliant (Weikle, 2006). Furthermore, as Ella Westland from the Department of Continuing and Adult Education at the University of Exeter illustrated, banning princess culture entirely is impossible, but parents who are concerned with the effects of fairy tales on their child’s self-esteem can help their children become familiar with alternative gender roles (Westland, 1993, p.237). Overall, princess culture in moderation is the

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