I think the saddest part about
racism is people not being confident in their skin or feeling inferior. While researching
racial bias in children, I came across an article by the CNN. The news reporter
sat down with kids and asked them questions about the paper doll test. The paper doll test is a paper with a picture
of five identical dolls, each only differing in skin colors. The dolls range
from very light to very dark.
When the reporter asked “What skin
color do you want?” a black little boy pointed right to the lightest doll.
Another black little girl chose the second lightest saying that “…I just don’t
like the way brown looks cause the way brown looks, looks really nasty for some
reason.” Similar responses were given by other children.
These poor kids have grown up
thinking that their skin color is undesirable, and would rather be white. It is each of our jobs to actively teach children, peers, and even grown ups that racism is not okay and can be resisted. Going
along with that, I also think it is so sad that people are even afraid to be a
certain race, or wear certain garments in our country these days. I don’t know
how to get rid of racism, and I cannot solve all of our problems. But I can be
accepting to everyone I meet, treat everyone equal, and be a good example. Our
country needs love and acceptance right now, and I think that that is the best
way that we can all make a difference.
http://www.cnn.com/2010/US/05/13/doll.study/
I've seen this study before, and I like that you brought it up. It's sad how early kids see racism in the world.
ReplyDeleteWow, thanks for sharing this study! It blows my mind that even young kids are responding like this. I would have loved you to relate this back to the rest of the class given that this is your last post, but well written none the less.
ReplyDeleteIt saddens me every time I read about this study. I appreciate your thoughts on their reactions and reflection on the overall issue of racism for the end of your blog.
ReplyDeleteWow, I had never heard of this study before. I really enjoyed reading your reflections on this issue. It is very interesting that there is so much in the media about loving your body-type or hair or whatever, but there is so little about loving your skin. Thank you for bringing this to light. Well done.
ReplyDeleteI recall hearing about this study in my psych class last year, and it still saddens me. I agree with your thoughts on the issue though. It's up to us to make the change. Good job!
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