“In a study of children’s toy and television preferences, researchers Isabelle Cherney and Kamala London found that, when left alone, half of boys ages five through thirteen picked “girl” and “boy” toys equally – until they thought they were being watched. They were especially concerned about what their fathers would think if they saw them. Over time, boys’ interests in toys and media become more rigidly masculinized and codified, whereas girls’ stay relatively open ended and flexible.”
