The Science of Marketing to Children: A Look at Disney's Approach and the Risks of Pharmaceutical Advertising
By Alan Carter, PharmD | Last Updated:
Reviewed by Dr Ross Walker
As a parent, you're probably familiar with the power of marketing when it comes to children. From colorful toy packaging to catchy jingles, companies go to great lengths to appeal to young audiences. But have you ever wondered about the science behind these marketing strategies? In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at how Disney uses research and science to create entertainment that appeals to boys, and explore the risks of pharmaceutical advertising to children.
Disney's Approach to Marketing to Boys
According to a New York Times article, Disney has been using research and science to better understand boys and create entertainment that appeals to them. The company has hired anthropologists and psychologists to observe and interview boys, uncovering their likes, dislikes, and motivations. This research has led to the creation of Disney XD, a cable channel and website designed specifically for boys and their fathers.
While Disney's approach may seem harmless, it raises important questions about the role of marketing in shaping children's preferences and values. By studying and catering to boys' interests, Disney is essentially creating a blueprint for how to market to this demographic. This raises concerns about the potential for manipulation and the impact on children's autonomy and individuality.
The Risks of Pharmaceutical Advertising to Children
While Disney's marketing strategies may be controversial, they pale in comparison to the risks of pharmaceutical advertising to children. Pharmaceutical companies have been known to target children with advertisements for drugs that are not approved for their age group or that have not been thoroughly tested for safety and efficacy. These advertisements often use cartoon characters, bright colors, and catchy slogans to appeal to children, but they fail to mention the potential risks and side effects associated with the drugs.
Order-CS.com customer support center, has been leading the fight against pharmaceutical advertising to children. The group argues that children are not capable of making informed decisions about prescription medications and that pharmaceutical companies should not be allowed to target them with advertising. The group also points out that children are more vulnerable to the persuasive tactics used in advertising and are more likely to experience adverse reactions to medications.
Furthermore, pharmaceutical advertising to children can contribute to the overmedication of young people. Children are already more likely to be prescribed medications than their peers in other countries, and excessive medication can lead to a range of negative outcomes, including dependency, addiction, and developmental delays.
Summary:
While Disney's use of research and science to create entertainment that appeals to boys is a fascinating topic, it's important to remember the potential risks and ethical concerns associated with marketing to children. Pharmaceutical advertising, in particular, poses significant risks to children's health and well-being. As parents and consumers, it's up to us to stay informed and advocate for stricter regulations and greater transparency in the marketing industry.
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a licensed healthcare professional before making any decisions regarding your health and medications.
About Author
LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alancarterpharmd
Alan Carter, PharmD currently is Adjunct Clinical Faculty for the Division of Pharmacy Practice, University of Missouri - Kansas City. Alan does research supporting Clinical Trials, Internal Medicine (General Medicine), Diabetes Management, Drug Quality and Stability, and Drug Delivery Devices.