Monday, April 14, 2008
Stereotypes through animation?
1 comments
So, I'm going to bet on the fact that most of us have noticed the incredibly strict gender roles commercials adhere to by only portraying women as the buyers and users of cleaning products and baby food. I don't think I have ever seen a commercial for a cleaning product that featured a man. Example:
But has anyone noticed a frightening increase in the number of animated ads that are perpetuating gender stereotypes? Whether it's a talking elephant selling air fresheners, or mama and baby bear discussing children's cough syrup, I have definitely noticed more of these over the past couple of years.
What worries me about these animated ads is the fact that because they're animated, they will probably appeal to children more and will be more effective in grabbing the attention of any kid sitting in front of a TV set. It seems like another outlet to implant gender roles in their young vulnerable minds. And with all the Barbies, Ty Girlz, toy cooking sets, baby dolls, and Easy Bake ovens in this world, God knows we don't need that.
But has anyone noticed a frightening increase in the number of animated ads that are perpetuating gender stereotypes? Whether it's a talking elephant selling air fresheners, or mama and baby bear discussing children's cough syrup, I have definitely noticed more of these over the past couple of years.
What worries me about these animated ads is the fact that because they're animated, they will probably appeal to children more and will be more effective in grabbing the attention of any kid sitting in front of a TV set. It seems like another outlet to implant gender roles in their young vulnerable minds. And with all the Barbies, Ty Girlz, toy cooking sets, baby dolls, and Easy Bake ovens in this world, God knows we don't need that.
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April 17, 2008 at 2:33 PM
Very good points there. I agree. I saw a documentary a long time ago called The Corporation (you might wanna look into it) where marketers admit to using child psychologists and such specialists to help design commercials that will reach children.
The idea is they want to make a subconscious connection with the kids and their products at a very early age, so then they will grow up to be a consumer.
They admit that it might not be ethical, but they say their job is to make money. That's all that really matters to them.