Category "Love"

What the new Barbie movie got wrong about relationships and what we can learn from it

The movie “Barbie” has taken the world’s box office by storm generating over 750 million dollars globally (as of this writing). Another record set was the fact that it was the highest grossing opening weekend movie directed by a woman. With a 91% on rotten tomatoes we have to ask ourselves why are people of all genders flocking to this movie? More importantly what is the message of the movie they are portraying and how are we to process this when it comes to its impact on couples relationship dynamics? Read on, we got you covered. 

Warning: spoilers ahead. The film starts off with the character Barbie, played by Margo Robbie, who feels totally indifferent to Ken or any male figure and at the same time starts to experience feelings of death and possibly a deeper meaning of life. She is told to venture into the real world where she discovers from her viewpoint a patriarchy filled world opposite to that of Barbie land. 

The basic implied idea of the film is that if the men ignore the women and the women ignore the men then the world would be a happier place. In the initial part of the film it seems as if women only exist if they are free from men and their existence is based upon their longing for being noticed by women. 

Barbie, while not directed at a specific audience, definitely targets young adult impressionable viewers, extending their influence beyond the realms of childhood entertainment. Surprisingly, this seemingly lighthearted movie has left a significant impact on ideologies of couple dynamics. By analyzing the messages and values (whether agreeable or not) conveyed throughout the film, we can gain insights into how these colorful tales contribute to shaping perceptions of love, relationships, and gender roles. 

These are the main issues that I believe the movie just got flat-out wrong: 

Challenging Gender Stereotypes

One of the most remarkable aspects of the Barbie film is their ability or should we say inability to challenge traditional gender stereotypes. We witness female protagonists taking on diverse roles, ranging from Presidents and Doctors to explorers and scientists. Such portrayals present an empowering message to young girls, inspiring them to break free from conventional gender norms. Which is great! But they chose to showcase this only in Barbie land! As soon as Barbie reaches the real world they depict it as a male dominated patriarchy nightmare. Last we checked Mattel has 5 Women out of 11 currently serving on its board. 

As couples we can engage in discussions about gender equality, encouraging both partners to reevaluate their own beliefs and biases to further connect with each other. 

Empathy and Communication

Barbie revolves around themes of friendship, empathy, and open communication. But surprise, surprise mostly only when it came to friendships with women! Couples can learn valuable lessons by challenging the aforementioned lack of emotional IQ that the Barbies had towards men. When it comes to relationships of all kinds, understanding the importance of emotional intelligence and active listening in a relationship. All couples may be inspired to implement these qualities in their own interactions, fostering a deeper understanding and connection. 

Reimagining Romantic Narratives

While romance remains a central theme in films in general, the narratives often portray love in diverse and unexpected ways. Not so in Barbie: we are presented with the exact opposite! Characters are not falling in love based on shared values, mutual respect, and genuine affection rather than relying solely on external appearances or material possessions. In Barbie women don’t necessarily need anyone at least for Barbie. By watching such narratives, couples can reassess their own notions of romance, focusing on building lasting connections founded on emotional compatibility and personal growth. 

Cultivating Shared Interests

The film did encompass a wide range of genres and storylines, appealing to a broad audience. As couples watch these films together, they may discover shared interests, sparking conversations about hobbies, dreams, and aspirations. This process of finding common ground which was ignored with all of the “Kens” can enrich the bond between partners, fostering a stronger sense of unity and cooperation in their relationship. 

Ultimately Ken should have been respected and Barbie should be respected as well. The importance of balance and equality in couple dynamics can not be understated. No one gender should be made to feel less than. Respect needs to be mutual. 

This isn’t about left, right, down or up conservative, liberal democrat or republican. It’s about relationships. As a professional couples therapist in order for ANY relationship to be successful it is up to all of us irrespective of gender to create safety for ourselves and everyone around us and only then can we truly thrive independently and as a whole. 

As a  marriage and relationship therapist, I love to pick apart a good existential crises. Contact me if you want to explore your own Barbie inspired existential crisis.

These days, where personal growth and self-care are prioritized, embracing sexual wellness has become an integral part of overall well-being. Whether you’re starting a new relationship or embarking on the “second time around,” seeking support from sex therapy can be transformative.

The Unsung Benefits of Sex Therapy

Many of us are unaware of the genuine necessity for sex therapy. For the most part, we don’t talk about sex openly. Consider the following benefits of sex therapy to break out from that cocoon:

• Improved Communication: The foundation of any successful relationship is effective communication. Couples benefit from sex therapy by learning crucial communication skills that allow them to express their wishes, concerns, and boundaries in a courteous and helpful manner. Couples can improve their emotional connection and intimacy by encouraging open discussion.

• Increased Intimacy:Intimacy transcends the physical environment. Sex therapy allows couples to explore emotional intimacy and strengthen their bond. By addressing underlying emotional blocks and fostering vulnerability, couples can experience a more profound level of closeness and intimacy in their relationship.

• Resolving Sexual Concerns: Sex therapyprovides a specialized approach to addressing sexual concerns such as erectile dysfunction, low libido, or difficulties reaching orgasm. Through personalized strategies, techniques, and exercises, individuals and couples can overcome these challenges and regain sexual confidence and satisfaction.

• Healing Past Traumas:Past traumatic experiences can significantly impact an individual’s sexual well-being. Sex therapy offers a safe environment for individuals to process and heal from these traumas, allowing them to reclaim their sexuality and build healthy relationships based on trust and intimacy.

Seeking Support from Sex Therapy Jerusalem

For those in Jerusalem and surrounding areas, LovingWisely is a leading sex therapy firm that provides professional and compassionate guidance. Our team of experienced sex therapists is dedicated to helping individuals and couples navigate their unique sexual journeys, providing tailored support and evidence-based interventions.

Conclusion

Embracing sexual wellness is a courageous and transformative journey. Sex therapy offers the tools and support necessary to navigate this journey with confidence and understanding. Whether you’re starting anew or rekindling the flame in a long-term relationship, seeking guidance from sex therapy professionals, such as those at LovingWisely, can empower you to embrace your sexuality, enhance intimacy, and experience a more fulfilling and satisfying sexual life. Remember, you deserve to love and be loved wisely, and sex therapy can be a valuable resource on this journey.