Psychology In Seattle Podcast The Psychology of JonBenet Ramsey - (Chap 2 - Child Pageants)
Oct 8, 2025
The hosts explore the complex dynamics of the JonBenet Ramsey case, delving into her early involvement in child beauty pageants. They debate whether pageants sexualize children, noting differing perceptions. Kirk shares insights about JonBenet's intensive training and her mother Patsy's own pageant history. The discussion extends to the suspicious ransom figure and how public perceptions of parental guilt can polarize opinions. They also touch on the implications of DNA findings and law enforcement's fragmented approach to the case.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Pageants Doll Up Kids But Childlike Behavior Remains
- JonBenet appeared heavily made-up and poised onstage but behaved like a normal five-to-six-year-old in interviews.
- Kirk and Humberto note pageant presentation can look adultified while the child's responses remain childlike.
Pageants Were A Committed Family Activity
- Pageant participation was not casual; Patsy actively engaged JonBenet in recurring competitions from around age five.
- Hosts suggest parental influence, especially from a former pageant winner like Patsy, likely initiated the involvement.
Sexualization Is Perception-Dependent
- Perception of sexualization varies; some outfits clearly look more adult or revealing in other pageants.
- Hosts caution that those attracted to children might read sexual cues that others do not.
