Games with Hidden Agendas

After reading Scanlon’s essay “Boys R Us: Board Games and the Socialization of Young Girls,” I was completely blown away by all the stereotypical and gender related games she had mentioned. She argues in her analysis that games specifically intended for girls, ages eight up, are heavily focused on shaping the consciousness of young girls. Scanlon mentions in her essay that “by playing these types of board games, girls learn a central rule: they need boys to complete their self-definition. Games such as “Girl Talk” or “The Dream Date” game completely transform a girls’ perspective of how she ought to behave in society. These social expectations shape gender roles, which are greatly influenced by the media.

These types of board games created for young girls clearly promote male privilege, as well as the privileges of race, wealth, and heterosexuality. Gender stereotypes are displayed on the advertising and layout of these products, for example, a board game may display a colorful photograph of young girls in feminine clothing, jewelry and heavy makeup. It’s a bit disturbing to see that at such a young age, young girls are being shaped into such a controversial stereotype. Their conditioned to believe that they must use products such as clothes and makeup to enhance their looks, which translates for girls that they must look their best in order to get a boyfriend, keep them, and then learn to be dependent on males in order to be successful in life. I got to say, that when I read this I was furious to think that the board of directors who made such a game could be so inconsiderate and sexist! Girls ought to have the same rights as boys do; be independent and not have to rely on the influences of gender role socialization. These types of games fail the needs of young girls, games ought to have a positive and constructive goal behind them so that one could learn and create logical understandings. Instead of games that focus on the material side of things, it should help inspire a girl’s creativity and challenge their intellects.