In a move to enhance representation in Barbie dolls, toy maker Mattel Inc. is launching their inaugural Barbie doll featuring autism. The collaboration with the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) aimed to provide autistic children with relatable representation while also sending a message to non-autistic individuals.
The unique attributes of the doll were carefully selected with input from advocates during an 18-month development process. For instance, the new Barbie’s eyes are designed to shift slightly to the side to mirror how some autistic individuals avoid direct eye contact. Additionally, the doll features movable elbows and wrists to acknowledge behaviors like stimming and hand flapping that some autistic people use for sensory processing or to convey excitement. It also includes a fidget spinner for sensory stimulation.
There was deliberation within the development team on whether the doll should be dressed in tight or loose-fitting attire. Ultimately, they opted for loose clothing to accommodate sensitivities to fabric textures and minimize skin contact. The Barbie also comes with a tablet to represent non-speaking autistic individuals and is designed as both a woman and a person of color to address underrepresentation in the autistic community.
Deepa Singal, the scientific director of the Autism Alliance of Canada, highlighted the issue of under-diagnosing girls with autism and emphasized the importance of broader representation in addressing this issue. The inclusion of non-speaking representation in the doll aims to normalize alternative forms of communication and highlight the diverse ways individuals interact with the world.
The introduction of the autistic Barbie is part of a broader trend in children’s entertainment towards inclusivity. Mattel’s Fashionistas line, which includes dolls representing various disabilities and conditions, reflects the company’s commitment to diversity and representation. Jamie Cygielman, Mattel’s global head of dolls, expressed pride in introducing the first autistic Barbie as part of their ongoing efforts to reflect the diverse world children see.
Pervez, reflecting on his involvement in the project, drew parallels to his childhood experience playing with Mattel’s Becky doll, who used a wheelchair. He emphasized the importance of fostering empathy and understanding through toys like the autistic Barbie, which help children recognize the diverse individuals who make up their world.