New autistic Barbie may help some children feel more included and valued, experts say

Mattel Unveils Autistic Barbie in Bid to Promote Inclusion: Expert Reaction Divided but Mostly Positive.

The US-based toy company, Mattel, has introduced a new doll designed to represent an autistic child, sparking debate among experts about its potential impact on promoting acceptance and inclusivity.

Developed in partnership with the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN), the Barbie features several distinct characteristics aimed at simulating the sensory experiences and behaviors of individuals on the autism spectrum. These include noise-canceling headphones to help manage overwhelming sounds, a tablet for non-verbal communication, and flexible joints allowing for stimming motions such as hand flapping.

According to Geraldine Dawson, a leading expert in autism, having an autistic doll can play a pivotal role in shaping children's self-perception and mental health. "Autistic kids often feel excluded because they're different," she explained. "Having a doll that represents their personal experiences sends a message that they are valued and included." This, in turn, can help prevent the development of mental health issues such as depression commonly associated with autism.

While some have welcomed the new Barbie as a groundbreaking step towards representation, others have expressed skepticism, questioning whether it accurately captures the complexities of autism. A Reddit user sparked controversy by suggesting that the doll's features felt "insulting" and arguing that many autistic individuals don't use headphones or tablets in the way depicted.

However, another user countered that these aids are essential for many people on the spectrum, highlighting the need for greater understanding and acceptance. Ultimately, Mattel's intention to promote inclusivity and self-acceptance seems to be resonating with some experts and advocates, who see the doll as a positive step forward in the fight against autism stigma.

The Barbie is now available for purchase at major retailers and on Mattel's website, with ASAN hoping it will serve as a tool to show children that autistic individuals are integral parts of their communities.

I think this new Autistic Barbie is super cool! It's about time we had a doll that represents people on the spectrum in a more realistic way. I mean, can you imagine growing up not seeing anyone like yourself in toys or media? It must feel super isolating.

I love how Mattel worked with the Autistic Self Advocacy Network to get this right. It's clear they did their research and tried to capture some of the sensory experiences that come with autism. The noise-canceling headphones and tablet are actually really thoughtful touches.

Of course, I can see why some people might be skeptical, but overall I think it's a step in the right direction. We need more representation like this in our media and toys. It's time to break down those barriers and show kids that being different is okay!

I mean, think about it... We're talking about creating a doll that represents someone who's 'different'. It's like, we're not even trying to hide the differences anymore, but are we really just accepting them or are we just trying to make ourselves feel better? Like, what does acceptance even mean in this case? Is it about embracing the struggles of autism or is it about making it 'cool' for kids to be different?

And let's not forget, there's a whole world of autistic experiences out there... It's like we're just scratching the surface with this one doll. We need more than that. I mean, what about the people who don't have headphones or tablets as part of their daily life? What about those who are non-verbal and still manage to thrive? The more nuanced we can be in our representation, the better off we'll be.

But at the same time... this doll is like a beacon of hope for some kids out there who might feel invisible. They're saying, 'Hey, I'm not alone.' And that's something to hold onto. So yeah, it's complicated... but isn't that just life in general?

omg i just got so emotional thinking about this new Autistic Barbie i mean can you even imagine how many times you'd try to explain what autism is to someone and they'd be all like "oh it's cool because there's a doll that looks autistic" nope its not that simple but at the same time its super awesome that mattel is trying like my little sis has autism and it would've been so helpful for her when she was younger to have something that looked like her anyway i think its cool that they partnered with asan because thats some legit expertise right there

Mental health issues start early

I'm kinda stoked about this new Autistic Barbie doll but I gotta say, I'm also a bit worried it might be oversimplified? Like, does anyone actually use noise-canceling headphones all day? Not to mention the fact that some people on the autism spectrum don't use tablets or have flexible joints like that. It's always important to get the facts straight and not perpetuate stereotypes.

But at the same time, I think it's a good step in the right direction to be having these kinds of conversations about inclusion and acceptance . If we can help kids understand that autistic individuals are just as valid and valuable as anyone else, that's gotta be a win for me. Plus, I love that Mattel is working with organizations like ASAN to get this right . So yeah, let's keep having these discussions and pushing for more understanding !

omg i'm literally over the moon about this new Autistic Barbie i mean can u even imagine how empowering it must feel for kids who've ever felt like they dont fit in cuz they're different? mattel is literally trying to change the game here and promote inclusivity in the best way possible, im all about it

I'm so glad they're finally making dolls that look like real kids ! I remember when my own niece was diagnosed with autism, she felt so invisible and left out because she didn't fit the "typical" mold . Having a doll that looks like an autistic kid is a game-changer for kids who might feel like they don't belong .

I think it's awesome that Mattel is working with experts to get it right . It's not just about making the doll look "autistic", it's about capturing the spirit and experiences of living on the spectrum . And I love how ASAN is using this as a tool to promote acceptance and inclusion - every little bit counts, right?

I gotta say, I think this doll is a game changer ! It's about time we start talking about autism in a way that's realistic and inclusive. I mean, let's be real, most people on the spectrum don't use headphones to block out noise, but some do! And those who do can totally benefit from them. It's all about representation and making sure our kids see themselves in toys and media.

I love that Mattel worked with ASAN to get this right . They're not just selling a doll, they're selling an opportunity for kids to learn about and appreciate neurodiversity. And I gotta agree with Geraldine Dawson, if we can change the way kids think about themselves, it's gonna be huge .

Of course, there are some critics who don't get it , but I say, let's just celebrate that this doll is even happening! It's a step in the right direction and we should be supporting it. Let's make sure to have these kinds of conversations with our kids about autism and inclusion...the future is looking bright

I just got back from this crazy hike over the weekend and I'm still thinking about those trails... you know how sometimes the views at the top can be so breathtaking, but then you're like "wait, what was my life before that? " Anyway, back to Mattel's new doll. I think it's awesome they're trying to promote inclusivity, but it's also making me think about how our perception of autism changes over time . Like, did we use to view it as a "disability" or was it always seen as a spectrum? What do you guys think? Should we be celebrating these dolls for their attempts at representation or are there more ways Mattel could've done it?

autistic barbie the more autism representation in media the less i care about being "represented" it's time to move on from tokenism and focus on inclusivity for ALL neurotypes #autism acceptance #neurodiversity

I'm not sure if I love this new Barbie or not ... I mean, the idea behind it is great, but can we really trust Mattel to get it right? They've had some issues with diversity and representation in the past. And what about all the people who are like "oh, my kid loves playing with Barbies and that's not representative of autism"? But at the same time, I guess having a doll that includes autistic features could be super helpful for kids who feel excluded or misunderstood.

I'm still waiting to see some studies or data on how this Barbie is actually going to impact kids' self-perception and mental health. Is it just a marketing gimmick? And what about the Reddit user who said the doll's features were "insulting"? Shouldn't we be listening to people with autism experiences, not just experts or Mattel's PR team?

idk what's more cringeworthy - the fact that people are having a meltdown over this doll or that it actually needs noise-canceling headphones anyway, i think its cool that mattel is trying to promote inclusion and acceptance... its about time we start seeing more representation of neurodiverse folks in media. gotta admit though, i do have some concerns about whether the doll accurately captures the complexities of autism... but hey, maybe its just a step in the right direction

I think its super cool that Mattel is trying to break down barriers and make the world more inclusive . Having an autistic doll might seem like a small thing, but its impact can be HUGE ! It's about promoting acceptance and showing kids that being different isn't a bad thing . I'm all for it! We need more dolls like this to represent all sorts of identities and needs . And you know what? Even if some people are skeptical, its just a starting point . The fact that Mattel is working with ASAN shows they're committed to getting it right . Plus, the features on the doll might seem small to some, but for those who need them, they can be a lifesaver . Let's celebrate this positive step forward and keep pushing for more inclusivity and understanding

im thinkin mattel got this one right ! who doesnt wanna see themselves in a doll? its all about inclusivity & representation, and if its makin kids feel more accepted & valued, then thats a win in my book . sure theres some ppl who might be like "wait whats the point?" or think its oversimplifying autism, but im not gonna disagree with those perspectives . what i will say is that mattel did their research & partnered with experts, which shows they care about gettin it right . and let's be real, havin a doll thats more realistic can actually help reduce stigma around autism. so yeah, i think its awesome & cant wait to see how kids react to it

I think its kinda cool that mattel is tryin to be more inclusive, but some ppl r sayin the doll dont look or act exactly like real ppl w/ autism, which is fair i guess . but at the end of the day, its about spreadin awareness and breakin down stigmas around autism. if it makes a diff in kids lives, thats all that matters

I think its kinda cool that they're trying to make dolls more realistic, but idk if they went too far lol ‍ like, I get the intention is good, but some ppl might be all upset cuz it's not exactly how everyone on the spectrum lives what Mattel should do is just have a bunch of different versions of Barbies with different traits and let ppl choose which one they like best , that way everyone can feel represented!

i think its kinda cool that mattel created an autistic barbie but idk if its gonna change people's minds about autism thats still a pretty big issue . like, my friend has autism and they dont use headphones or tablets like the doll does, so im not sure how realistic it is. BUT at the same time, i get why mattel wanted to do this, its a good first step towards representation and acceptance . maybe its not gonna solve everything but hey, its a start

I mean, can you imagine being an autistic kid in a world where dolls look like they're wearing headphones and tablets? It's like, "Girl, bye!" Just kidding, sorta. But seriously, I think it's awesome that Mattel is trying to represent the autism community in a positive light. And let's be real, if this doll can help prevent some kids from feeling like they don't fit in, then it's a win-win in my book . Plus, who doesn't love a good stimming motion every now and then? Just kidding (kind of).

I think its kinda awesome that Mattel is trying to break the stereotype of what an "autistic" person looks like. The details they included in the doll, like those noise-canceling headphones and flexible joints, show that they actually did their research. Like, it's not just a token attempt to be inclusive, but actual thought has gone into making this doll relatable. I hope its positive impact extends beyond the kids playing with it, though - maybe it'll inspire parents and caregivers to look at autism in a new light too