Early Sexualization. Cute or Concerning?

These eight year old girls are great dancers. But the question is....does dressing and dancing like this make their performance cute or concerning?

According to study by the American Psychological Association, early sexualization of girls can lead to the following:

"Cognitive and Emotional Consequences: Sexualization and objectification undermine a person’s confidence in and comfort with her own body, leading to emotional and self-image problems, such as shame and anxiety.

Mental and Physical Health: Research links sexualization with three of the most common mental health problems diagnosed in girls and women—eating disorders, low self-esteem, and depression or depressed mood.

Sexual Development: Research suggests that the sexualization of girls has negative consequences on girls’ ability to develop a healthy sexual self-image."

It is clear that these young girls are talented and confident, but this kind of dancing and exposure is likely to lead to more serious concerns.

DeAngelis, T. (2007). APA task force report decries culture's sexualization of girls. Monitor on Psychology,38(4), 51-52.