By Rana Zalghout | Staff Writer
Toys have long been a big part of kids’ lives. Not only do they entertain children, but they also play an important part in molding their vision of the world around them. Indeed, toys can operate as agents of gender role socialization, which can have a substantial impact on children’s development and gender role perception.
Children are exposed to gender stereotypes through the toys they play with from an early age. Boys are generally given action figures, cars, and other toys associated with power and dominance, whereas girls are typically given dolls, dress-up outfits, and other domestic toys. Toys that promote traditional gender norms, such that dolls, cooking sets, and beauty kits, are frequently suggested for girls to play with. These dolls educate girls that their primary function is to be caregivers and domestic workers and that their physical attractiveness is an important part of their identity. This messaging can be problematic since it limits girls’ goals and career options, resulting in a gender wage gap and a lack of female leadership presence. Furthermore, toys marketed specifically to girls frequently promote unfavorable gender stereotypes. For instance, “girl toys” are sometimes depicted as being overly obsessed with their appearance, resulting in unattainable beauty standards and the objectification of women. As a result, young girls may develop body image difficulties and low self-esteem as a result of this.
Also, action figures marketed to boys, for example, are frequently depicted as aggressive and violent, propagating the notion that violence is a desirable attribute in men. This rhetoric has the potential to be destructive, as it can foster toxic masculinity and a culture of violence in which males are pressured to adhere to society’s ideals of what it means to be manly.
In conclusion, toys can operate as agents of gender socialization, molding children’s perceptions of gender roles and limiting their future options and prospects. Toys marketed to girls frequently encourage harmful gender norms, such as female objectification and excessive beauty standards. On the other hand, toys sold to boys frequently encourage negative gender stereotypes such as violence and dominance. Recognizing the impact that toys can have on children’s development is critical, as is promoting toys that question traditional gender roles and encourage equality and diversity.
Parents and caregivers can play a crucial role in challenging gender stereotypes by providing children with a diverse range of toys and encouraging them to play with toys traditionally associated with the opposite gender. This can help break down gender barriers and promote gender equality. Toy manufacturers also have a responsibility to promote gender equality by creating toys that challenge traditional gender roles and promote diversity and inclusivity. We must recognize the impact that toys can have on children’s development and take steps to promote toys that challenge traditional gender roles and promote equality and diversity. By doing so, we can create a more equal and inclusive society that empowers children to be their authentic selves, regardless of their gender.