The topic of sexualization is indeed a touchy topic to discuss, but it is indeed the truth that is happening around the world with young children. What I have to say about sexualization is that I am afraid of what will happen next with our children in years to come. At age nine, I was not worried about how pretty I was; better yet even thinking about a boyfriend was not in the picture. I was too busy trying to play sports with boys. This article helped me to understand that it is acceptable for children to be curious about sex and sexuality, but the conflict is how they are conceptualizing it. I understand that media and popular culture play enormous roles in the process, but what are parents doing to explain sex and intimacy at age-appropriate levels? Children know more than enough about these topics at a very early age, but with older siblings, it seems hard to keep topics like that secretive. Some examples of sexualization would be: shows that portray young girls in pageants with heavy mascara and make up, possibly wearing bathing suits and heels; or fashion dolls with very revealing clothes, fishnet stockings and more; or underwear that is shaped like thongs available to young children. All of these are readily available for young children to view which could easily trigger thoughts about sex. This affects young girls more than boys because girls think that they are supposed to be beautiful, thin, and sexy in order for boys to like them. Children could possibly fail in school if they solely concentrate on how they look or concentrate on viewing girls as sex objects. This could develop low self-esteem, and there is a possibility that adults or professionals will look at children differently because of this. Professionals want the best for our children. Professionals must let parents know the value of parental guidance and advice to their children. If it is possible, professionals need to help children reject and resist pressure from media and provide age appropriate terms for them to understand.
Talisha these pictures speak volumes! WOW!
ReplyDeleteForeign families here can shelter their children from much of this that may be going on in their home countries. Chinese families do take photos of their children in adult and unrealistic photos but sexuality is different here. I do not know how much information if imposed on children too soon. Actually boys and girls maintain platonic friendships from preschool through university.
Most girls have amazing bodies here and wear clothes that would be highly suggestive at home but don't turn a head here. A lady who recently interviewed for a job at our school commented on the relaxed confidence women here have with their sexuality.
However, there are horror stories of how women and young girls are exploited all over Asia.
The fact that preoccupation with how you look is a waste of valuable development time is reason enough on its own to give them comfortable clothes and space to run.
Thanks for your thoughts and photos.
Bobbie
Its hard to understand the parents of the these young children. How do they allow such behavior. I watch the shows on TLC and its surprising of the behavior and values of these parents. Its hard to correct the situation when you do not have the support of the parents.
ReplyDeleteI really liked your point about helping parents understand how media pressures can have harmful affects on their child and as educators we do need to partner with parents to help protect children from the bombardment of sexually suggestive material. I also worry about the future generation because they are so bombarded with morally debasing material that it will be hard for them to judge what should be morally acceptable and taboo in the future. Great blog post!
ReplyDeleteWe have been trying for years to create the best Vietnam tours that incorporates the highlights of Vietnam in a concise of 7 day to 2 week period with the same fantastic value that we pride ourselves on. Now we have done it! Featuring such best travel destinations and sights as the unspoilt scenery Sapa, Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hue and Hoi An, Nha Trang and the best beach stay, Ho Chi Minh city and the delta of Mekong to make your vacation a truly unique one.
ReplyDelete