Problem
The media have a significant impact on cultural changes and social developments. Its omnipresence in the daily lives of contemporary people of all ages contributes to their worldview. It shapes their perception of social constructs in general, gender roles, and body image.
It is particularly relevant for the young generations who are sensitive to the images they deem appealing and admirable. Indeed, one of the sources of such impact is Disney princesses, who are very popular among young girls who want to resemble their preferred cartoon characters in real life. Given the popularity of Disney movies, it is essential to identify whether portraying Disney princesses as perfect individuals positively or negatively impacts the audience in forming personalities.
Background
The impact of female characters’ portrayal in media products made for youth has long been a topic of discussion for scholars. Indeed, much research has been conducted to identify the patterns of non-realistic and stereotypical showcasing of female roles and body images in Disney princess movies. For example, Rutherford and Baker claim that “the physique and behavior of the leading women in the tales have become a predictor of success and good fortune” (para. 3).
Indeed, since Disney princesses are portrayed as perfected female figures whose beauty is equal to their worth and value, it has negative implications for the young generation of girls. In such a manner, stereotypical gender roles are formed, which further translate into real-life consequences of diminished development opportunities for women (Muslim et al. 1-2). Although the body positivity movement has shifted female body image in Disney movies to some extent, the standards of physical appearance remain hindered and impose bias that ultimately harms young generations (Blasko et al. 2-3). Thus, current research demonstrates that body image and gender roles are stereotypically shown in Disney princess movies, which negatively affects little girls.
Thesis Statement
The unrealistic portrayal of Disney princesses in movies constructs a biased image of beauty, stereotyped gender roles, and women’s worth implied in appearance, which adversely influences young girls’ socialization and mental health.
Research Questions
Given the topic’s background, one might formulate the following research questions. Do Disney princesses have a positive or negative impact on young girls? Do Disney princesses in movies and TV hurt young girls? How does the concept of “perfect princess” contribute to the body image and self-perception of little girls? How does the stereotypical portrayal of the female body impact the self-perception of the young generation of girls?
Significance of the Topic
The identified topic is essential due to its relevance to the context of the interconnection between culture and society. Indeed, since Disney princess movies are highly popular among young and susceptible audiences, it is essential to ensure that the patterns of behavior, gender roles, and body image translate to the real world (Silalahi et al. 175-176). Thus, it is essential to research the impact of such content on female children to find solutions to minimize harm through change.
Planned Research Practices
To investigate the issues outlined within the research questions’ scope, one should collect more data on the topic. It is planned to conduct a qualitative research project to collect information from research studies on the psychological effects of Disney princesses on little girls’ self-perception and the view of a woman role model. An extensive review of secondary sources of information will be required to identify the connection between princess portrayal and children’s socialization and mental and psychological outcomes. It might be completed by analyzing the findings of the latest studies on the issue.
Works Cited
Blasko, Kaitlyn, et al. “Media Portrayal of Female Characteristics Within Disney Movies Influencing Children’s Body Image.” International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings, vol. 79, no. 1, 2023, pp. 1-5.
Muslim, Ahmad Adnin Zidane, et al. “Influence of Gender Portrayal in Disney Cartoons on Young Female Audiences.” e-Journal of Media and Society, vol. 4, 2020, pp. 1-15.
Rutherford, Amanda, and Sarah Baker. “The Disney ‘Princess Bubble’ as a Cultural Influencer.” Media Culture Journal, vol. 24, no. 1, 2021, Web.
Silalahi, Rachel, et al. “Comparison of Beauty Standards and Body Images on Disney Princesses and Female Villains.” The Journal of Society and Media, vol. 7, no. 1, 2023, pp. 174-192.