When you think of beauty pageants, your mind may picture sequin gowns, glitzy crowns, and model walks. But behind the glossy dresses and glittery crowns, there is a dark side to these contests that can exploit young girls and women for profit. From the Jon Bennet Ramsey murder to trash television shows like Here Comes Honey Boo Boo, the exploitation of children in pageants has sparked conversation about the thin line between exploitation and harmless entertainment.
Child beauty pageants have been around for decades and continue to thrive worldwide. But, they can have a negative impact on the mental and physical health of participants. They can promote a harmful body image, promote sex stereotyping, and foster a sense of insecurity, among other things.
In addition, beauty pageants can be discriminatory and exclude people of color, mothers, and other nonconforming women. And they can expose children to sex predators.
The sexualization of children in beauty pageants, particularly toddlers, is a concern for many. This occurs because of the emphasis on makeup, tan, and revealing outfits that are often inappropriate for their age. The sexualization of children in these events can lead to a distorted sense of priorities, and teach them that their value lies mainly in their appearance.
Additionally, it can lead to a lack of confidence in one’s inner beauty and abilities, which can lead to depression and eating disorders. Finally, the high cost of participating in beauty pageants can be financially draining for families, especially those in poverty.
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