Unfortunately, this author is blaming the model for how society, the media, and consumerism elevate such people (female and male) as unrealistic “models.” And it is too bad, because there is some good writing and insight here. But, and this is a term I rarely use, the word catty came to mind several times while reading this. Articles like this feed into the mainstream, hetero-normative trope of the catfight; women just cannot be friends, and they often compete for male attention. A great book I just finished reading that covers the catfight phenomenon in-depth, written with snarky wit and a strong love for all the author’s sisters (even the few anti-feminist women she rags on), might shed some light on the topic and help address some issues: http://www.worldcat.org/title/where-the-girls-are-growing-up-female-with-the-mass-media/oclc/29753060 Plus, it is a fun read that expresses frustration with patriarchy, but is never bitter.
