Mommy vs. media in sexualization of girls: Where are the dads?

[JoePhilly]

36. About a year ago, my 12 year old daughter and I were at the Mall ...

At the time, she was about 5'7" and she looked closer to 18 then to 12 (her mom developed early too). And she's very mature, so she carries herself in a manner that suggests she is older.

Anyway, as we we're walking, we kept passing these "little girls" who were dressed as if they were on their way to an after hours club. Full make-up, tight little black dresses, very high heels, the whole deal.

Each time my daughter saw one of them, she nudged me. Neither of us understood what was going on.

Then we reached the far end of the mall. They'd set up a fashion run-way and little girls were walking the cat-walk with some song playing.

My daughter, who loves music says "I know that song!" ... to which I said "Yes, you know every song" (because no matter where we go, she does know the song being played).

And then she said, "but this song is not appropriate, some of those girls aren't even 10 years old!".

The song was ... "Sexy Back" by Justin Timberlake.

And in the seats surrounding the stage, little girls, and their moms. And some of the moms appeared to be dressed for the runway as well. I did not see a single dad.