Daily Digit: How influential are science fiction and superheroes for young girls?

Daily Digit is the story behind the numbers that make our world work. Today we’re looking at female-centered sci-fi and female superheroes in the media. According to a new study, 90 percent of girls believe sci-fi and superhero women are positive role models for them. Girls ages 10 to 19 say there aren’t enough role models or strong, relatable women characters in film and on TV. And it’s not just girls who want to see more strong female characters; a majority of boys and parents want to see them too. Girls say that seeing their favorite heroes makes them feel strong, brave, confident, inspired, positive, and motivated. The study showed that Wonder Woman is most girls’ favorite hero and that seeing a female Doctor Who onscreen “makes them feel like they can become anything they want.” Hear that, Hollywood? We need more strong female heroes!