Barbie dolls are incredibly popular. Over three billion have been sold so far and their popularity doesn’t seem to be waning. Its interesting that the male Ken doll is actually only popular with girls. Boys tend to prefer Action Man.
So what is it that makes Action Man so popular with boys and Ken so unpopular? Is it the Action Man name, or maybe the outfits and uniforms or the gadgets and weapons? There aren’t a great selection of accessories for Ken dolls as there are for Action Man Figures. One key attraction of Action Man is the exceptional range of gadgets and weapons available. And most boys, sadly, love to play with weapons.
Another key difference is the design of the dolls themselves. Action Man’s robustness and clever articulation makes him very versatile and able to climb and grasp things in his hands. In contrast Ken appears to be something of a wimp.
There has been much debate about whether boys should play with dolls. Traditionally, dolls have been the toys allocated to girls, fostering their nurturing instincts. Boys tend to be given model cars, boats, planes, footballs and weapons. Some parents can become very worried if their young son shows an interest in playing with dolls.
Experts have researched this subject and agree that playing with dolls is good for both boys and girls. It can be very educational, helping children to make sense of the world around them by re-enacting scenes from life.
Many eminent child psychologists agree that play and toys should not be based on gender. including dolls houses, prams and of course dolls}. as young girls. And girls should be allowed to play with toys that might traditionally be given to boys, footballs, rc cars and even Action Man Figures.
So, dolls for boys can be excellent for their education. The chances are that most boys would prefer an Action Man rather than a Ken doll.
