Children between the ages of 6 and 12, psychologists believe, are trying to figure out if they are inferior or adequate. To be adequate, in the Monster High world we're talking high platform shoes, lots of makeup, and very revealing outfits.
How do parents of young girls find this acceptable? Keep in mind, we are talking about a top seller.
"This doll looks like a prostitute."
At first glance Angela Paris is a little taken back, and that's before she looks at the back of the box.
"There is nothing in here that doesn't involve grooming or changing clothes multiple times, it's sad."
This mother or three girls, was a bit of a wild child herself back in her tween years.
"I know looking back that I wanted to be like that, and it really took me being a mom to realize how I wanted to present myself."
"It's not inherently bad, there are some things I am uncomfortable with, there is just so much that is better!"
Pyschotherapist Maribeth Blunt sees this doll not helping, but rather attacking a person's imperfections using an unrealisitic viewpoint.
"If girls spend too much time in this, they are not going to get what they really need, and grow up thinking they need something else."
Blunt feels the doll urges kids to change who are you to be accepted, and that being who you are is not good enough.
"The industry is trying to sell sex to a lower and lower age group, it makes sense what they are doing because it works."
The Eating Recovery Center reports 80% of woman are dissatisfied with their appearance and one half of fourth graders are on a diet.
Mattel claims their product positively promotes the acceptance of all individuals and say they haven't had any complaints from parents just happy customers.