Living happily ever after? The hidden health risks of Disney princesses

Abstract

While much current research on Disney princesses focuses on the harmful impact of unrealistic ideals on young viewers’ self-esteem, there is a critical need to shift attention towards the health risks faced by the princesses themselves, Sanne H B van Dijk and colleagues argue Fairytales princesses continue to be widely celebrated. The Walt Disney Company has undoubtedly contributed to their popularity by producing movies based on these stories. While these films captivate young viewers, they also raise concerns about stereotyping.1 Unrealistic portrayals of relationships, as well as impossible beauty standards such as unnatural waist-to-hip ratios,2 can negatively impact girls’ self-esteem.3 To date, research has focused on the films’ effects on viewers’ health, neglecting to explore the health risks faced by the princesses themselves. Future research must consider threats to the health of Disney princesses. Disney princesses face serious real world health hazards. Surprisingly, however, despite these risks they seem to live happily ever after. Disney must consider interventions to overcome these health challenges. Strategies to improve princesses’ wellbeing could include mindfulness and psychotherapy, training on cohabitation with animals, and personal protection measures against infectious agents and toxic particles. Only then can Disney princesses start living healthily ever after. ### Snow White, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Snow White is the first and fairest princess of all (according to the mirror on the wall), charming audiences with her timeless appeal. As a scullery maid for her wicked stepmother, opportunities for social interaction are extremely limited. An overview of systematic reviews finds a strong positive association between lack of social interaction and cardiovascular disease, depression, anxiety, and all cause mortality.4 Fortunately, Snow White meets the Seven Dwarfs, who protect her from the dangers of solitude. Subsequently, however, Snow White eats a …