Mattel introduced a new autistic Barbie in the Fashionistas line, created in collaboration with experts and the non-profit organization Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) over 18 months.[1][4][5] The doll's eyes are shifted slightly to the side, reflecting the avoidance of eye contact typical of people with autism.[1][7] He wears headphones with the function of suppressing surrounding noises, because sounds often upset autistic people.[1][7] She wears loose-fitting clothes and flat-soled shoes to reduce sensory stimulation.[1] He holds a fidget spinner to relieve stress and has a tablet with a communication system for people with speech problems.[1][7] It has greater mobility in the elbows and wrists to allow imitation of hand waving for communication or reassurance.[1][3] Barbie as an icon has existed since 1959 and as of 2019 includes models with disabilities.[2][6]