Barbie-Mrs. Potato Head study asks good questions, but design “Spudders”
It's a rich time for this study surrounding exploration and reimagining of play and gender roles. "Boys Can Be Anything: Effect of Barbie Play on Girls' Career Cognitions" found that 4-7 year old girls who played with a Barbie (dressed either as a doctor or in fashion clothes) had narrower views of career options for girls, compared to those who had played with Mrs. Potato Head. However, its questionable design and significance may generate great headlines – "Barbie vs. Mrs. Potato Head" – but it isn't necessarily good science.
July 3, 2014
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