Barbie launches autistic doll in diversity drive

Mattel has introduced what it describes as the first autistic Barbie, created with input from autistic advocates, and the doll includes design features intended to reflect some autistic experiences.

Mattel has introduced what it describes as the first autistic Barbie as part of a wider effort to increase diversity among its dolls. The company says the design process included input from the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN). The doll incorporates specific features intended to reflect experiences some autistic people report, and the launch has been reported as welcomed by campaigners and charities. Discussions around the release have also noted the wide variety of experiences across the autism spectrum. Key details: - Mattel created and launched the doll as part of a diversity drive and describes it as the first autistic Barbie. - Design choices cited by Mattel include loose clothing to reduce fabric-to-skin contact, an eye gaze slightly to the side, moveable elbows and wrists, a pink tablet, a pink fidget spinner, and noise‑cancelling headphones. - The toy was developed with input from the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, which participated in design discussions. - Campaigners and some charities welcomed the release as an increase in representation; an autistic writer described the doll as a meaningful symbol for some girls. - The National Autistic Society emphasised that autism is a spectrum and that authentic representation based on consultation is important; it noted estimates that more than one in 100 people are autistic and cited at least 700,000 autistic people in the UK. - Mattel has previously produced dolls reflecting other conditions, including diabetes, blindness, and Down's syndrome. Summary: The launch adds to recent efforts to make mainstream toys reflect a wider range of abilities and experiences, and advocates have said authentic depictions can help visibility and understanding. Undetermined at this time.