T-Shirts and Polo Shirts Need to Be Appropriate for Children

Tuesday 16th of December 2008 11:54:04 PM

T-Shirts and Polo Shirts Need to Be Appropriate for Children

The Scottish Parliament Equal Opportunities Committee decided to discuss sexualised clothing for children. There is growing concern retailers are indiscriminately selling t-shirts that have adult themes and clothing that promotes sexuality to children. The Parliament reviewed examples of children’s products with inappropriate suggestions. Retailers defended their positions through a written report which was submitted by the Scottish Retail Consortium.

These kinds of controversies makes it clear why blank t-shirts are excellent school wear. The parents and consumers complaining about the clothing with adult or sexual connotations want the Scottish government to refuse to agree to contracts with advertisers who promote these kinds of products. They also want government regulation which bans such sexualised children’s products and garments. Naturally, there is a difference of opinion as to what constitutes sexual material on children’s clothing and the impact on behaviour when such clothing is worn. There is also concern that many children really have no idea what their clothing logos or sayings are suggesting. Agnes Nairn is the Professor of Marketing at EM-Lyons Business School and she said, “By not understanding what they are doing, they may be opening themselves up to exploitation by paedophiles.”

It is not just clothing which is being brought into question. Toys are also being reviewed by the Scottish Parliament EOC. For example, the Bratz dolls wear too sexual clothing, such as miniskirts and boas, in the opinion of some adults. The Scottish Retail Consortium did not agree with the opinions of those who claim sexuality is being promoted in the children’s retail sector. The SRC believes that it is the duty of parents to control what their children wear. MSP Sandra White disagreed vehemently. She said, “The consortium … says that the issue is up to parents - it absolves retailers. That is wrong. I am disappointed by the SRC’s attitude that the matter is nothing to do with it. Retailers stock the products.” The Scottish Parliament is still studying the issue.

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