A discussion on the Psychological Affects of Disney movies and the subliminal messages included.
Disney-
This single expression, whether used in reference to a brilliant animator or an
extravagant theme park, produces overwhelming feelings of excitement and bliss
across the young children of Western culture. Since 1934, the term has been
synonymous with the phrase “the happiest place on Earth”. The Disney films are
considered to have considerable influence on the social, emotional, and
cognitive development of the adolescent viewers. Considerable research focusing
on the inappropriate messages embedded in these films has proposed a
conflicting question: Are Disney Movies suitable for children to be watching?
The
following are claims of negative connotation:
1)
Historical Inaccuracies
To support their case, critics frequently point out
the historical inaccuracies present in the films based on actual events. “Pochahontas”
for instance is a Disney film notorious for critic’s censure. The producers created a story of love and hope
based on a realistic event of Native American genocide
2)
Unrealistic Physical Attributes
The abnormally tiny waist with large breast is a
look replicated in almost every Disney Princess. Critics claim that Disney has
inspired a message that thin is beautiful, encouraging eating disorders in
young girls. Various male characters are also illustrated with absurd characteristics.
. Her success is contributed to her
level of attractiveness in comparison to her stepsisters who are shown to
exemplify a hideous appearance. Antagonist
are usually portrayed as unattractive as well, encouraging children to
associate shame with similar features they share with disliked characters.
3)
Importance of Social Status
Disney Princess films generally portray characters
in high social hierarchy. “Cinderella” is an example, revolving around a woman
who escapes undesirable living conditions simply by marrying a prince with a
palaces and excessive riches.
4)
Racial Stereotypes
Disney Movies have been criticized for discriminating
between races and illuminating racial stereotypes. This is noted in films such
as Chinese cats singing about fortune cookies with Asian accents in “The Aristocrats”
and the Black crows in “Dumbo”.
REBUTTAL
Although popular criticisms do make valid points, it
does demean the purpose of each film and the morals they provide. Numerous
Disney films are rooted with hope and determinacy. The main characters are
usually set at a disadvantage but ultimately find true happiness and serenity. The
films exemplify courage, independence, and self respect. They provide moral
examples for creating health relationships and levering difficult situations.
In my opinion, critic’s claims are more or less negative assumptions of what we
are able to observe as adults. Children are delicate and innocent. They don’t pay
attention to historical information, social status, or racial discrimination.
Their minds are free of hate and filled with imagination. Children are predominately
shaped by their parental figures and the ethics they instill. When compared to
other negative outlets such as violent video games and television are far more
responsible for cultivating bad behaviors and emotional instability.
