A Woman's Perspective

Recently, women have begun to see changes in their role in society. Although girls and women are starting to receive messages about being strong, independent women, too often they are also still receiving messages indicating women should be fragile and domestic. In an article titled "Leader stereotypes match men more than women," Catherine Kleiman quotes Alice Eagly, a psychology professor at Northwestern University who says that "it's bound to be challenging for women because there's a built-in role conflict" (1998). The contradicting ideas are conveyed in the media as well as in early childhood.

Women's new role in society is focused on independence. Society has found that women are able to thrive without set limitations and expectations despite earlier notions. The media no longer focuses primarily on superficial aspects of women but also on a more profound basis. In Ever After, a modern version of Cinderella, Danielle is respected not only for her beauty but also for her intelligence and distinct personality. She shares her knowledge of democracy, education, and equality with Henry, the prince. Danielle's actions represent the new forms of empowerment modern women strive for. Women are now encouraged to educate themselves beyond the domestic elements. Advertisements share this idea of a "new woman." Hamburger Helper ads typically present working women who are also able to make dinner for the family. In "Beauty and the Beast of Advertising," Jean Kilbourne recognizes that it is somewhat common to see a "liberated woman" with "independence and self esteem"(2000, p. 239). Similar ideas of independence are portrayed in the business world. New positions are shaped for strong-willed women who are able to take on more responsibility. These new roles for women are continuing to gain acceptance.

Despite the modern views of women, the traditional concepts of what it means to be a woman are still being taught in the early stages of development. Parents encourage outdated roles in the way little girls are dressed, the toys they play with, and the books that are read to them. The overall attitude of the parents is projected onto the child, as well. As pointed out in "X: A Fabulous Child's Story" by Lois Gould, girls are treated a distinct way. Usually cuddled and kissed, girls are treated as if they are dainty and almost breakable. When a young girl is commented on, the comments usually describe the girl as cute (1978, p. 383). As children, girls are typically offered girl toys, which usually have to do with a domestic behavior such as baking or cleaning. For example it is common for a young girl to have an Easy Bake Oven. Once girls are old enough to attend school, the outdated ideas of women are taught in the institution. Girls are often separated from boys in order to complete the "girls' skills" such as baking or painting flowers (Gould, 2000, p. 386). As a girl grows up, she is inspired by the actions of those around her, her parents and teachers especially. If a girl's mother demonstrates the traditional role, more than likely the girl will proceed in the same traditional manner. The archaic ideals of conforming women are clinging to the minds of young girls.

As young girls develop into young women they are bombarded by stereotypes on television primarily in advertising. Jean Kilbourne states in "Beauty and the Beast of Advertising" that "women are shown almost exclusively as housewives or sex objects" (2000, p. 238). It is uncommon to see an "average woman" advertising a product. For a product with a male audience, models are typically used that range in sizes from 0 to 4 to portray the "average American woman." However, the average woman of 5'4" and 142 pounds is a size 12, this representation socializes