Young models' and actresses' flamboyant, stereotyped behavior sets a poor example for our girls.
Newsworthy or not? One only has to scan the magazine racks or turn on an “entertainment magazine” type program to get the low down on the most recent and most shameful celebrity misbehavior. Even mainstream news has taken to covering this topic. One wonders if some, if not most, of this behavior is by design: a planned, protracted, sure-fire bid for publicity. Or is it just another by-product of young people who have too much money, power, and time on their hands, yet lack the maturity and social judgment necessary to manage the trappings of their success?
Glamorization of excessive behavior. The hyping of a hard- partying lifestyle normalizes excessive alcohol and drug use, and implies that a trip to rehab is a normal part of life’s routine, like getting one’s hair or nails done. Violent and outrageous behavior is celebrated, verbal aggression towards photographers and other assorted lackeys is commonplace. Screaming and cursing is often the preferred way to show ones anger or displeasure.
What’s the problem? Our girls are watching. And they are likely picking up on the social cues that tell them that outrageous behavior is a quick and easy way to get attention, to be seen as cool or exciting. The fact that these flagrant displays of misconduct are so frequently and prominently displayed adds to the glamour factor.
Role models. In addition, the depiction of the “diva” girl, whose interests are mainly shopping, partying, and snobbery, promote values and attitudes that conflict with what we are trying to teach our girls. Likewise, their shallow portrayal of “girlness” only serves to reinforce stereotypes that real girls battle every day. These celebrities, and the personae they symbolize, are powerful role models. They just aren’t the kind we want for our girls.
Younger and younger. Unfortunately, it isn’t only teens who see these images. Girls pre-teen and younger are identifying with the depictions of princesses, super-shoppers, and glamour girls that populate their toys, TV shows, and, increasingly, books. Themes of helplessness, dependency, and early sexualization, in addition to those mentioned above, threaten girl’s perception of themselves and limit what they believe they can do.
What Can You Do?
- Discuss the images and behaviors we see. Help girls (and boys, too!) identify the motives underneath the behaviors.
- Make sure kids know how to resolve conflicts peacefully, and help them develop solid communication skills.
- Counter stereotyped images by asking kids to point out what’s “missing”. What qualities aren’t shown that are actually more important than what we see?
- Point out that these types of stories may not be complete, and that reports are often exaggerated or sensationalized to increase sales. In this way, you are helping kids learn to be more critical of what they see and hear.
- Introduce kids to positive, interesting, age-appropriate role models to give them a healthy alternative to the images they are exposed to on a regular basis.
