A variety of dolls with disabilities are creating quite a stir. Situated in wheelchairs or with leg braces, some with the almond eyes and protruding tongues of Down’s syndrome, these dolls have found a receptive market in progressive countries such as Britain. Here in the U.S. however, they are met with disgust and ridicule.
Those who are against the dolls feel that they only emphasize the differences between the disabled and able-bodied children, while those in favor welcome them as a realistic option to the “Barbie doll” perfection touted for so long.
The possibility of these dolls being ridiculed or used as objects of derision and fun sticks in the minds of some. How do you balance the potential benefits of a doll that may create a sense of belonging in some disabled children with the chance of these dolls spotlighting the very disability that they are working to develop acceptance for?
What do you think? Are they a benefit for children with disabilities or for those who have parents and family members with disabilities, or do they deride and poke fun?
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6 Responses to “Dolls With Paralysis – Not P.C.?”
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I really wish that all the people that have time to complain about silly things like this would concentrate on more important issues.
Do the same people think that a doll with dark skin only represent the difference between a dark skinned and light skinned person?
[...] Autism Impact Blog wrote an interesting post today onHere’s a quick excerpt A variety of dolls with disabilities are creating quite a stir. Situated in wheelchairs or with leg braces, some with the almond eyes and protruding tongues of Down’s syndrome, these dolls have found a receptive market in progressive countries such as Britain. Here in the U.S. however, they are met with disgust and ridicule. Those who are against the dolls feel that they only emphasize the differences between the disabled and able-bodied children, while those in favor welcome them as a reali [...]
I agree with dburk. We can’t ignore our differences, that only gives way to stereotypes and prejudice. These dolls are great self-esteem boosters for kids, not to mention the fact kids love their dolls to look like they do!
Yes, the idea that the dolls will help kids feel more “acceptable” makes sense. If you ignore it or purposefully avoid the topic, then it usually seems to grow into a real issue. Thanks for your input!
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I think if a doll like this puts a smile on just one child’s face, then it is worth it.
Keep in mind that able bodied children might also have a doll like this. And why not? We can teach compassion at any age.