That is, boys will routinely receive blue clothes or toys while pink clothes or toys will be for girls. “Children's toys and games are also differentiated based on sex” (Diekman and Murnen 2004; Seccombe p.99). Through these toys or playing with these toys, boys and girls would eventually distinguish the differences between male and female; furthermore, they can reinforce and perpetuate traditional gender stereotypes. For example, boys or men are expected to act and behave in ways that have been considered masculine or associated with masculinity (Seccombe p.104); “Men are often assumed to be more aggressive, sexual, emotionless, rational, and task-oriented than women” (Seccombe p.93); and therefore, action figures, such as Superman, WWE wrestling toys and Hulk are made for boys to play. While girls or women's roles are associated with femininity (Seccombe p.104); “women are assumed to be more caring, passive and dependent” (Seccombe p.93); and so, the kitchen and baking set and baby bottle dolls and diaper sets are made for girls, therefore, they could apply their educational and cooking skills when they get older and mainly do household chores. Personally, I believe that these toys have both a negative and positive influence on children's socialization. For example, playing with toy guns or military toy sets with a knife can lead to early exposure to violence and aggression. However, some toys, such as Lego sets and building bricks, arts and crafts have a powerful and influential influence on children's thinking and behaviors.
tags