Voices is the Dorset Echo's weekly youth page - written for young people by young people.

This week Aimee Mortimore discusses female representation in the media.

Some young girls still aspire to be princesses. 

Unfortunately, the media too often distorts the image of a true princess and usually she is portrayed in a disempowering way. We are taught her role is to look pretty, be perfect and nothing else.

If ever in trouble, Prince Charming will save the day. 

In my opinion, these preconceived conceptions are unrealistic and a have a negative influence on everyone. Children’s advertisements, especially the ones for toys reinforce these gender stereotypes through television and other main media forms. 

Adverts ‘for girls’ promote perfection, beauty and glitter giving rise to social expectations and pressures of looking a certain way - It is not surprising girls in later years suffer from low self-esteem and confidence. 

According to a national report entitled the ‘State of Self-Esteem’, seven out of ten girls believe they are not good enough. It is unbalanced to have such a focus on human physical appearance. 

However, I am optimistic about the future. Disney is steadily breaking the stereotypical gender roles in the form of fantastical characters, who recount their stories.

Pocahontas and Merida are examples of excellent role models to which young children can admire and aspire. These princesses are strong, independent and intelligent. Merida ‘saves herself’ instead of waiting for a prince. 

It is important young girls watching television see their own gender represented positively and with depth.

Between the ages of one to five, we are incredibly impressionable - what we are taught, we believe emphasising the need to write complex and strong female characters. 

Let us inspire girls to be whoever they want to be.