If the existence of Barbie dolls, Victoria's Secret models, and thin actresses truly placed overwhelming pressure on young girls to look a certain way, then you would think that the existence of G.I. Joe action figures, Hollister models, and ripped athletes would at least have some effect...

+235 If the existence of Barbie dolls, Victoria's Secret models, and thin actresses truly placed overwhelming pressure on young girls to look a certain way, then you would think that the existence of G.I. Joe action figures, Hollister models, and ripped athletes would at least have some effect on young boys, amirite?

by Anonymous 12 years ago

There has been, and always will be pressure by society to look a certain way. The only difference is that this generation whines about it and uses it as an excuse to behave like brats.

by Anonymous 12 years ago

Obviously pressure exists, and exponentially more so on women, but it is often misattributed to Barbies, models, and celebrities (as the post argues). The true source of the pressure is social roles and norms that have existed for literally millions of years.

by Anonymous 12 years ago

You're exactly right, except that humans haven't even been around for a million years.

by Anonymous 12 years ago

I think it's less that this generation is "Whining about it" and more that we're starting to go against it. People are trying to change the fact that girls starve themselves to look skinnier. That being said, I don't think owning a Barbie doll will make you develop an eating disorder, that it's something in you and while things can contribute, nothing will give you these issues.

by Anonymous 12 years ago

Video games change everything

by Anonymous 12 years ago

Exactly what are you implying? Because if it's saying boys feel better about themselves because they game, that's sooooo not true. Plenty of girls do actual gaming (no, not the retarted sluts holding controllers, there's a difference that I won't explain now) and still very self concious. Also, I know plenty of guys who have low self esteem and still play.

by Anonymous 12 years ago

You are oblivious- those things actually DO affect boys.

by Anonymous 12 years ago

Last timeI checked, most boys I know were trying to "bulk up" or at least avoid being a scrawny stick.

by Anonymous 12 years ago

Think of it this way. Men tend to not be affected by their surroundings. We were designed to be tough and utilitarian much like a metal barrel. Women are designed to be beautiful and pleasing to be around much like a vase of flowers. If you throw rocks at the barrel what happens? Nothing. If you throw rocks at the vase it shatters. Women are simply more prone to believe the things they hear and be affected by them.

by Anonymous 12 years ago

Slightly related video I stumbled across talking about the objectification of males and females in western society. Interesting watch, but long as hell. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d-N9daqANcw&feature=plcp

by Anonymous 12 years ago

I'm not a sexist but how exactly is the pressure placed on woman greater then men? If we're talking social pressure, not correlated with appearance, men are expected to be able to provide for a family while the woman stays at home. Historically men are taught that it's their responsibility to continue their family name while building a safe enviornment for that family and trying to progress in a professional capacity. I'm not saying these are as popular today as much as the 40s but the expectation is still there. Id say the stress of growing up is pretty equal on everyone.

by Anonymous 12 years ago