Disney Princesses Pose Strong Effects Not Only On Little Girls But On Boys As Well, New Study Suggests

A new study released by Brigham Young University suggests that watching Disney princesses and playing with Disney princess toys have strong effects not only on girls but also on boys as well. The researchers found that girls are more susceptible to potentially problematic gender stereotypes. On the other hand, boys exposed to the Disney princess culture experience a moderate effect on them as well, such as becoming more helpful to those around them.

The study found boys exposed to the Disney princess culture were less likely to shun feminine things for masculine toys. They displayed more balanced interests and believed that good attitude would help them relate to others. A "prosocial behavior" was also seen on boys in the home as well as in the classroom. Boys who watched Disney princess movies tend to be more helpful to their classmates and are more open to sharing their toys, as told by National Post.

This stereotypical behavior isn't that bad, but may have a long-term negative effect on girls. It could result in girls avoiding experiences they think aren't feminine or are only meant for boys. The exposure to Disney princess culture may teach them the idea of being dependent on men to save or provide for them.

Study author Sarah M Coyne, a family life professor at BYU, said as little girls exposed to Disney princess culture may strongly stick to female gender stereotypes as they grow older and are more likely to feel like they can't do other things. She adds that they may have less confidence academically, particularly in Math and Science; they could be less adventurous, and less likely to try and experiment, according to Elle. The findings also noted that exposure to Disney Princess culture influence how they view their bodies which is introduced to them at the early age of three or four, which the movies feature as "the thin ideal."

The research includes almost 200 kids: 96 percent of girls and 87 percent of boys were familiarized with Disney Princesses via media. 61 percent of the girls played with princess toys once per week, while only 4 percent of the boys did so. The study was published in Child Development.

There were no signs of lower self-esteem or negative body image on both genders. The researchers concluded generally do not feel self-conscious about their appearance. The study does not recommend banning the movies but parents must focus on the display of bravery and realistic lessons in their conversation with kids, as per Stuff.