The toy company Mattel, which launched the 'Barbie doll', has long faced criticism for Barbie's blond, blue-eyed and perfect appearance, with many believing that this 'white, slim, beautiful' image can mislead children. The company has now begun to promote product diversity, gradually launching various more inclusive Barbie dolls. Among these, the latest release is the 'Diabetic Barbie,' which has been highly praised by the medical community as a way to help children better understand people with diabetes.
In addition to the Diabetic Barbie, the company has previously launched Barbie dolls representing Asian-Pacific heritage, Down syndrome, and even dolls that use wheelchairs.
Mattel's global first 'Diabetic Barbie' doll comes equipped with an insulin pump and a blood glucose monitor, making it the latest member of the company's diverse product line, and was specially designed by Mattel to enhance children's awareness of diabetes.
Krista Berger, Senior Vice President and Global Head of Dolls at Barbie, said at the announcement of this new doll that it marks "an important step in our commitment to inclusivity and representation."
"Barbie dolls help shape children's early perceptions of the world. By reflecting medical conditions like type 1 diabetes, we make sure more children can see themselves in the stories they imagine and in the dolls they love," Krista Berger stated.
Model Lila Moss expressed that having a Barbie doll with type 1 diabetes like herself made her feel both incredible and proud. She noted that the design details of the doll are very realistic, and especially mentioned the Barbie's patch is very small, just like the one she usually wears.
Pediatrician Alok gave high praise to Mattel’s new toy, emphasizing that when toys reflect the real lives of children with type 1 diabetes, important conversations can happen naturally, and this sense of recognition is especially vital for children living with chronic conditions.
Mattel continues to expand its diverse Barbie series, hoping that through these 'imperfect' Barbie dolls, children of more different backgrounds and physical conditions can see themselves in Barbie and build a healthier sense of self-identity.