Gender Stereotypes: Disney Princesses Are not Harmful to Young Girls

Introduction

In this New Age, there are propositions on how each gender should conduct themselves, dress, and behave. Kids growing up in this era often look up to someone they consider a role model or even a superhuman. For young girls, Disney princesses often serve as these role models. Disney princesses make excellent role models for girls, teaching them to have hope and courage. Each princess has a different story, which helps girls understand diverse experiences. Although this may seem beneficial, some parents believe otherwise. They argue that these characters promote damaging stereotypes of women. However, I believe Disney princesses are valuable role models for several reasons.

Gender Stereotypes: Disney Princesses Are Not Harmful to Young Girls

There are many well-intentioned efforts to show girls how strong they can become, just like the princesses. Many people feel that princesses are more harmful to young girls than encouraging them. All Disney princess movies have similar endings, typically culminating in a happy ending where the princess achieves everything she desired. For instance, in "Tangled," Rapunzel overcomes adversity to live her life with Prince Rider. The diversity present in all Disney princess stories is what makes them interesting; it showcases the strength of the princess. It's also a learning experience, teaching that when the princesses face adversity again, they will know how to overcome it. In "Tangled," Rapunzel is locked away, but desiring freedom, she escapes with Flynn, and they live happily ever after. Disney princesses are crafted to inspire and build confidence in young girls, demonstrating how to remain strong through adversity.

People enjoy films based on traditional stories. Disney's energetic approach aims to foster pluralism and offer an enlightening perspective. Each Disney film is based on a unique story, such as "Aladdin," "Pocahontas," and "Mulan." Disney not only bases films on factual stories but also connects real-world occurrences to help audiences understand the culture and context of the narratives. Monika Bartyzel states, "Princesses represent one insufficient form of the feminine that has an immense impact on young civilization" (Bartyzel, 2013, p. 468).

Disney princess films are designed to give young girls hope. In some cases, princesses save their princes. Pocahontas rescues her prince and ends the conflict in the process. Mulan also saves her prince and protects China while doing so. In some stories, the princesses do not end up with the guy. This teaches young girls that not all dreams come true, but the intention behind actions matters most. Doing kind deeds does not always warrant a reward in return; people do nice things because it is the right thing to do.

Disney princesses could be seen as harmful to young girls who take them as role models. Some princesses are better role models than others, and some are poor examples. Certain princesses teach young girls that it’s acceptable to be unassertive, which is a harmful lesson. Additionally, some princesses change themselves solely to please a man. Ariel from "The Little Mermaid" alters everything about herself for a man, giving up her voice to gain legs so she can be with him. As Bartyzel (2013) states, "Taming her hair, and shrinking her breast" (p. 468). When young girls see this, they might think it’s acceptable to sacrifice parts of themselves just to be with someone who may not reciprocate their feelings. Despite these actions, I still believe that princesses serve as positive role models for young girls.

Economic Diversity and Aspiration

All Disney princess films have different beginnings. Some princesses are born into wealthy families, while others are not. Most films start with the princess's family being affluent. Disney films are created to entertain young females and show them how great things can be if they work hard and remain resilient. Some princesses grow up spoiled and treated like royalty all their lives, while others are born into poor families that cannot afford luxuries. This diversity resonates with young girls because not all princesses are born into wealth. Those from less privileged backgrounds can relate to Disney movies where princesses once faced poverty or hardship. This encourages girls who lack resources to remain strong and pursue their dreams. Not coming from a wealthy family should not deter one from working hard to achieve success in life.

Conclusion

Disney princesses are excellent role models for young girls, offering encouragement and hope. While some parents view them as harmful, Disney continues to produce films that earn respect for these parents. Disney princesses exemplify leadership and bravery, teaching young girls they can achieve anything. They also promote values like supporting family and being kind to others. Those who view them as harmful should delve deeper into Disney princesses and watch the films. The company aims to inspire, motivate, and capture the attention of young girls aspiring to reach their goals and discover their treasures. Princesses are kind, caring, and honest. Their adventurous moments teach girls the importance of having fun and exploring new things in life. Parents should encourage their daughters to watch and learn about Disney princesses, as they offer valuable lessons on self-satisfaction, resilience, and overcoming obstacles. Disney princesses are inspiring role models for girls with dreams.

References

Bartyzel, M. (2013). Princesses represent one insufficient form of the feminine that has an immense impact on young civilization. [Book Reference].