The toy company brings to the market a Barbie representing the features of the autism spectrum

A toy company Mattel has expanded its Barbie Fashionistas line with a new doll, unofficially called “Barbie with autism.”

The doll was designed in cooperation with the American autism organization. The purpose is to make the experiences of the autism spectrum visible in the play world and offer all children the opportunity to see themselves in Barbie dolls.

According to Mattel, the details of the novelty doll emphasize the experiences of the autism spectrum. The gaze is directed slightly to the side, reflecting the fact that many autistic people avoid direct eye contact.

It comes with a finger roller, noise-cancelling headphones and a tablet with an image-based communication application.

The clothes are designed to be sensory-pleasing: a loose dress and flat-soled shoes increase comfort and ease of movement.

Autism Association executive director One Taiveaho consider the doll a step forward.

“It is important that there are alternatives to toys that feel familiar and close. When the toy looks like you, the play also feels like your own. Now Barbie fans of all ages on the autism spectrum can find features in the doll that remind them of themselves,” she says in the announcement.

At least the doll has already been available in the online store. Dolls apparently purchased from Walmart in the United States have also already been seen on social media.

First The Barbie doll went on sale in 1959. Later, the doll represented a one-sided image of women and an unhealthy body ideal in popular culture for a long time.

In this millennium, Mattel has purposefully taken the doll selection in a more diverse direction. In 2023, the company announced A barbie dollwho has Down syndrome. The doll was designed in collaboration with an organization that represents people with Down syndrome.

Among other things, dolls with bald patches or spotted skin have also been brought to the market. In addition, the selection has been expanded with different skin colors and body shapes.

To autism with a focus on the Reddit discussion platform on the forum the new autistic Barbie has sparked lively discussion. Many consider it an important consideration, others fear the reinforcement of stereotypes.

“Autism isn’t what you look like, it’s who you are. This can be harmful because it makes visual stereotypes of autistic traits,” one commenter writes.

“The point is not to show autism externally, but to provide objects that an autistic child can relate to. Not everyone uses hearing protection or an AAC device, but many children do – and it’s good that it’s normalized,” notes another.

Correction 12.1. 4:56 p.m.: In the story, people with Down syndrome were written incorrectly. Down syndrome is not a disease, it is a chromosomal disorder.