This Man Showed How Boys Develop Sexism Through Small Interactions With Adults

It doesn’t take an expert to realize that kids are very impressionable – every little thing we do or say around them can influence their way of thinking. That’s why we should carefully consider the way we act around them – you never know how they might interpret our words or actions. A while ago, an artist named Damian Alexander tried to show how small interactions with adults might lead to boys developing sexism and created ten illustrations based on his own experiences.

Artist Damian Alexander illustrated how small interactions with adults might lead to boys developing sexism

“Growing up, my favorite character was Matilda. She was so smart and I related to her feeling out of place in her family,” shared Damian in an interview with Bored Panda. “The telekinesis thing was also really exciting to me. Then there’s Anne of Green Gables, Hermione from Harry Potter, Mary Poppins, Mulan, and so many more. I think it’s because girl characters tend to use creative problem solving instead of outright violence, and I found that a lot more engaging.”

Even Damian’s own family interacted with him in a similar way when he was young. “If I wanted a doll or something though, they’d direct me toward an action figure. Boys in my family would also turn up their nose if I wanted to play as Princess Peach in Super Smash Bros,” said the artist.

Damian believes that a lot of men undervalue women because of the toxic cycle that tells little boys they can’t admire women. “A lot of parents also think if their son likes girl characters, he’ll suddenly turn gay even though that’s not how that works at all,” added the artist.

“Just let kids like what they like,” concluded the artist. “If a little boy admires Elsa, just let him and don’t make a fuss about it. I’m so tired of seeing parents in the toy section direct their sons away from the doll aisle saying “Nope, that’s for girls!” Each time they’re planting the little seeds of misogyny in their kid’s head.”

People online showed support for the artist