There’s no doubt that the way women’s bodies are depicted in the media can adversely affect young girls and women.
Last week Plus-Size-Modeling.com released a depiction of a new Barbie on Facebook with a double-chin and curvier limbs, which sparked debate. More than 38,000 people have “liked” the photo and it has been shared over 2,000 times, but many have taken issue with the doll’s ample figure.
“No one is naturally fat for god’s sake, that’s sending the message to girls that it’s OK to look like this and be unhealthy …” wrote one commenter.
Another follower commented, “Imo this is horrible. Maybe make her a little fuller, but in no way promote obesity. Triple chins?? Really?? Im a curvy girl, but come on this is ridiculous.”
The craziest comment of them all, “Absolutely!!! Then make Cancer Barbie, Transsexual Barbie, Muslim Barbie, Leper Barbie … make Morbidly Obese Barbie. If little girls are dumb enough to be influenced by a doll, then people should have some fun, and put Barbie in the worst situations. How about Hooker Barbie and Pimp Ken? Watch Ken bust Barbie’s lip with [a] pimp slap.”
Pimp slap.”
After skimming through all the negative comments, most people shared a positive opinion that there should be a middle ground. Rather than promoting an exaggerated ‘obese’ Barbie, young girls should have a healthy-looking doll that is neither too fat nor too thin.
What do you think of a fuller figure Barbie doll? Do you find it offensive?
