In recent years Mattel has responded to the backlash against its Barbie dolls by expanding its careers and occupations -- and the Barbie game developer is the next doll in the collection.
The common backlash against the dolls are that they promote unrealistic beauty standards for young girls and that they should not be something that girls aspire to be or look like. The new Barbie game developer comes with glasses as well as a laptop and tablet that each show miniature code. The goal is to "break down barriers" in this generally male-dominated profession and show that coding career aspirations are just as likely for girls as they are for boys.
This game developer Barbie shows that potential careers that are normally targeted towards boys and men are just as possible for girls and women.
Game Developer Dolls
Barbie is Releasing a Doll with a Game Developer Career
Trend Themes
1. Diversity-inclusive Dolls - The development of dolls that challenge gender stereotypes and promote diversity in various professions like game development.
2. STEM Toys - The emergence of toys that aim to teach and promote STEM skills to young children.
3. Personalized Toys - The trend towards personalized toys that reflect the interests and aspirations of individual children.
Industry Implications
1. Toy Manufacturing - Opportunity for toy manufacturers to create more inclusive toys that cater to a broader range of children's interests and aspirations.
2. Education - Opportunity for the education industry to promote STEM skills and encourage diversity in various professions from an early age.
3. Tech Industry - Opportunity for the tech industry to create innovative and interactive toys that incorporate technology and promote learning.