Toddlers and Tiaras

Since it’s debut on TLC in 2009, Toddlers & Tiaras has captured the attention of audiences of all ages across the country. This reality series gives viewers an inside look at the extremely competitive world of child beauty pageants by following contestants and their families as they prepare for various shows. With the youngest competitors starting at two years old, it is evident that most contestants did not choose this life for themselves. As a result, the show becomes just as much about the parents as it is about the children. As the saying goes, a little competition never hurt anyone, but after watching the extensive, exhausting process each girl goes through before each pageant, a big question arises as to why any parent would ever chose this life for their child? With competition this big and contestants this young, someone is definitely getting hurt. Early childhood is a critical period in one’s life as it marks the beginning of the life long process of socialization. Socialization is defined as “a continuing process whereby an individual acquires a personal identity and learns the norms, values, behavior, and social skills appropriate to his or her social position.” Primary socialization usually extends until a child enters kindergarden and is a vital period in a young person’s life as it sets the foundation for all future socialization. During this stage, young mind’s are extremely impressionable as they are relying solely on their observations and experiences to decipher their role in society. Since most contestants begin their involvement in beauty pageants before their school years, it is imperative to recognize the role of child beauty pageants as social institutions for they become responsible for the socialization of young contestants. The main responsibility of the socialization process is the formation of a personal identity. Your identity is strongly shaped by the values you uphold as they help guide you in making decisions and forming