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Disney Princesses and Real Girls
By Liza Cooper | December 1, 2009
Disney fairy tales of princesses are standard fare for girls of today and even my generation. But the princess phenomenon has never been more popular among young girls.
Popular Disney fairy tales had their roots in stories handed down by the brothers Grimm. Many of the Grimm versions contained dark and gruesome aspects. These were sanitized by Disney and put into a standard format: a sad beginning, a mean, older female villain, and then a handsome prince saves the day and the tale ends happily ever after.
The recurring theme of the virtuous princess awaiting rescue by the prince is part of the socialization that works against girls’ and women’s ability to take charge of their well-being and fight back against predators. I’m not suggesting that parents prevent their daughters from being exposed to Disney–not only would that be nearly impossible, but the stories can provide a teachable moment.
The truth is that there are a myriad of cultural influences that girls are exposed to that work against their autonomy and self worth. But a parent can do much to inoculate his or her daughter against the harm by being a positive role model and pointing out alternatives.
Because self defense for women strategies for women start in the mind.
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