Apparently people are angry at Mattel because Mexico Barbie, from its Dolls of the World line, has a Chihuahua. Between her dress –a traditional costume that is to Mexican women what kilts are to Scottish men – and her little pet, Mattel is being criticized for stereotyping.
Bullet dodged, Taco Bell.
If she was dressed like a drug mule, or accompanied by one (I know, I know…I think I’m so clever), I’d understand. However, her outfit introduces cultural references that engage children and invite them to learn about the world around them.
Has everyone gone loco?
That said, if you’re angry about one Barbie, I suggest you be angry about all of them. They set impossible standards of beauty for girls. If Barbie were real, she’d be 5’9″ tall, have a 39″ bust, an 18″ waist, 33″ hips and size 3 shoes.
Forget Mexico Barbie. Let’s bring down the whole Barbie cartel.
Better yet, let’s use anger more productively by taking on the far more pervasive and insidious stereotyping we see in the media. Here’s what I read on Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media:
Males outnumber females 3 to 1 in family films – a ratio that has remained unchanged since 1946. More disturbing still, female characters in G-rated movies wear the same amount of sexually revealing clothing as female characters in R-rated movies.
At least Mexico Barbie is fully-dressed (and in pretty pink ruffles, no less)
What does this have to do with online dating? Everything. Negative stereotypes hurt everyone. It creates unrealistic perspectives and expectations in both men and women. Being realistic – and celebrating our true selves – promotes emotional well-being and gracious acceptance.
On a final note
If you’re online dating, but have a difficult time describing the real you, then let me. I take great pains to use your words, expressions and anecdotes so that you go online with a dating profile that you feel good about.
Check out my online dating profile samples and see for yourself. Or, get started with personality questionnaire then send your answers to me. You’ll be amazed at what I can do with them.
4 Responses to Barbie dolls, dating profiles and reality checks.