Now Reading: Barbie and Ken doll proportions now closer to real life, study finds
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Barbie and Ken doll proportions now closer to real life, study finds
Barbie and Ken doll proportions now closer to real life, study finds
A new study from the University of Adelaide and UNSW Sydney has found that the body proportions of modern Barbie and Ken dolls are significantly closer to real human measurements. The research,…
The Story in Brief
A new study from the University of Adelaide and UNSW Sydney has found that the body proportions of modern Barbie and Ken dolls are significantly closer to real human measurements. The research, led by Associate Professor Sara Grafenauer, analysed the latest versions of the iconic toys and noted that waist-to-hip and chest-to-waist ratios now fall within normal female ranges, though still below the average. This marks a sharp reversal from a landmark 1996 study that found Barbie and Ken’s proportions were almost unattainable in real life. Grafenauer said the diversification is positive given the dolls’ influence on children’s early perceptions of adult bodies.
The Indian Opinion
The Adelaide University study is a welcome reality check for a brand that long promoted impossible standards, but let us not overstate its influence. Children today see far more diverse bodies on social media and in real life than any one toy can shape. What matters more is whether parents and educators use these changes to start honest conversations. A real test will come when Mattel releases sales figures for India, will better proportions actually sell?
Source: hindustantimes.com
This story was synthesised by AI from the source linked above.
