Sunday, February 28, 2016

Dolls are for girls


From a time before society was completely formed and established, basic roles were in place. In prehistoric times men hunted for food all day long while women were most likely pregnant or with a young child in their shelter. From there, roles were established unintentionally. In the 1940s and 1950s roles in the house were again established when the men went off to war and the women were left home with their young children. Although, women worked in factories when the men were away, working women were still seen as nontraditional. The role of work was assigned back over to men when the majority returned. Women returned to the household to care for children, the craving to become a breadwinner remained for many women. 
These assigned roles stunted the women from progressing in life and expanding their horizon. Women wanted to work and do things men traditionally did, but that was not the traditional way. Women eventually won over society and were able to come out of the household. Although they broke some gender confining roles, they are still confined to certain traditions in the regular society in common day. Displaying image.jpegDisplaying image.jpegDisplaying image.jpeg
As people drive through McDonald's and order a kids meal, they are asked if it is for a boy or a girl. The gender of the child depends on whether or not the child gets a doll or a car. That mentality can be found throughout toy stores and advertising as well. In toy stores, girl toys are often pink, kitchen toys, or a type of doll. Boys get a car, tool sets, or an insects. The same for advertising, the girls play with dolls and boys with cars. It's unfortunate and sad to see that the toys boys play with are toys that teach them skills and motivate them to create and progress. Girls are taught to stay within the house clothing children and cooking food for a family. It's an interesting comparison from prehistoric times to modern day and how traditions can become so outdated and sexist so quick.

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