" Most girls get their first doll between the ages of four to six; around that age, many of them admitted to start worrying about their weight. Studies show that this strive for an unrealistic body image leads many girls to develop eating disorders and exhausting their bodies through the pressures of vicious diets and exercise. Eating disorder experts reveal that girls as young as five years old are developing eating disorders, and most cases of anorexia and bulimia arise before the age of 20 (McCarthy). In 1965 Mattel Inc. introduced the "Slumber Party Barbie" that included a scale with a permanent weight set to 110 pounds. This set came complete with a book that was titled "How to Lose Weight" and contained the all-capital advice that became the resounding and influential phrase, "DON'T EAT!". Through play, children learn about the world and their place in it. Their brains are actively registering every detail of these icons. They are admiring how popular and incredible Barbie is, so naturally these girls want to be exactly like Barbie, perfectly happy and picture-perfect. .
Contributing to Barbie's perfect image is her glamorous style, beautiful facial features, and composed put-togetherness. When observing Barbies' wardrobe, it is obvious that she has limitless options and that she can pull off just about any style. Her clothes are always beautiful and appear to be nothing short of Prada. Especially with girls that are self-conscious about weight gain and not being popular enough, the fact that Barbie is obviously the "it" girl that can wear anything with her perfect frame makes girls feel inadequate. In a society that pressures girls now more than ever to be popular in order to be someone, girls look at style, beauty, and social acceptance to determine their significance. All three of these factors contribute to girls being discontent with themselves and their circumstances in life.