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On Monday I introduced the concept that the stereotypical images presented by the leading men in Disney films might have a harmful impact on young boys’ growing ideals. I suggested that many of the main male characters in Disney films are one-dimensional and teach boys that good looks and martial prowess are essential facets of the ideal man.
We need to look at the overall image the Disney princes/men present to young boys. Most of them are princes, and even those who aren’t are still handsome, dashing, and masterful in a fight. So that’s the sort of men boys think they ought to emulate: girls will like you if you’re athletic and ready to save the day, and it certainly helps your chances if you’re a prince.
I realize that boys might not take as many cues for the ideal of their gender from Disney films as girls. Not having an entire brand revolving around Disney’s male characters likely helps. But we still should never underestimate the subtle effect media might have on children’s developing perceptions of self and the ideals to which they should aspire. The stereotypical alpha-dog macho-man image and its effect on boys might be less discussed than the Barbie-ideal for girls, but it’s just as harmful all the same.
I realize that Disney is by no means responsible for that ideal being perpetuated in the media, but as a company with a reputation as a supposed bastion of family values, I want to hold it to a higher standard. Disney might have less work to do in improving its male characters as role models for boys than it has for girls, but changes still need to be made.
Fortunately, Disney’s already headed in the right direction. Although Naveen from “Princess and the Frog” contained a few worrying traits – prince, charming with the ladies – he received equal character development as Tiana and improved upon his flaws.
Even more encouraging is Flynn from this coming November’s “Tangled.” Flynn’s not a prince, nor is he even on the right side of the law. Sure, he fits the Han Solo type for loveable, dashing rogue, but the film’s trailers also portray him as childish and a bit of a doofus.
He seems like the most well-rounded male character Disney’s fairy tale films have ever produced. Flynn and Rapunzel also appear to get equal screen time, a trend started by “Princess and the Frog” and one I’m glad Disney’s continuing.
While Disney has less steps it needs to take in presenting better male role models for boys than it does leading ladies for girls, it’s just as important that they do so. Society talks much less frequently about the stereotypes boys face than girls do, so in some ways the situation for boys is worse. Hopefully Disney will continue its current trend of improvement.
Related Articles:
Most Controversial Disney Films Pt. 1
Most Controversial Disney Films Pt. 2
*(This image by dbking is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 2.5 License.)
