By now you've probably heard that Mattel released new Barbie dolls, with a more diverse range of body types and skin colors.
The decision is a huge step in the right direction.
But many feel it's simply not far enough (besides being incredibly overdue). Many critics on social media are pointing out that Barbie's now four total body types and seven skin tones are only the beginning. They say if Mattel is truly striving for fair representation of different body types, the line should include but not be limited to transgender, disabled, overweight and postpartum bodies.
And that doesn't just go for the female doll, Barbie.
.@Mattel just released a new chubby #barbie doll...I can't wait for curvy Ken to come out! pic.twitter.com/7SeLLNRID4— Will McFadden (@willmickyficky) January 28, 2016
Some feel that Ken, Barbie's male counterpart, should have a "dad bod" version, a term describing the soft, plumper look some men get with age. Others just want to see a bigger guy doll, regardless of age.
#barbie where is fat ken? where is short nerdy ken? where is tall lanky ken?— Ubiquitousidiot (@ubiquitousidiot) January 28, 2016
Girls whined about Barbie's body enough to get it changed because it was "unrealistic". Meanwhile... pic.twitter.com/1xZducaSGv— Bradley Price (@BradleyPrice15) January 28, 2016
Sooooo, when does Ken (or any other "boys" action figurine) get a #dadbod or the #freshman15? #Barbie— Sladjana Tamindzic (@ImSladjana) January 28, 2016
They make an excellent point, specifically that toys traditionally aimed at boys (action figures, et al) also promote unrealistic expectations. Although women are sometimes perceived to be at greater risk of internalizing "idealized" body standards, men and boys are far from immune.
It's important for all children, regardless of gender, to be able to see representations of all kinds of people — because the world is filled with all kinds of people. It's that simple.