Stereotypes’ power shown

Merida from Disney movie Brave is a strong, intelligent role model for children. IMAGE: DISNEY/PIXAR
Merida from Disney movie Brave is a strong, intelligent role model for children. IMAGE: DISNEY/PIXAR
A University of Otago study on gender stereotypes has shown Disney princess movies might be affecting your children more than you think.

Researchers showed children of various age groups portions of popular animated Disney movies, such as Moana and Frozen, and found a few short videos over a few weeks could have a noticeable effect, particularly on younger children.

The videos shown in the study focused on how prince or princess characters were portrayed. One group was shown a video from Frozen of Princess Anna being rescued by the male character, Kristoff, while another group was shown a video of Kristoff being rescued by Princess Anna.

Lead author of the study Dr Anita Azeem said viewing such content could affect how children thought about gender-related attributes.

"Disney movies are often considered harmless, but research has consistently found that traditional princess movies in particular carry strong messages about gender roles.

"Given such long-lasting impacts, children’s media must be mindful of the characteristics they portray."

The findings showed that gender stereotypes could be reinforced by stereotypical portrayals, or reduced by counter-stereotypical portrayals.

For example, girls who watched videos of stereotypical Disney princesses baking or being rescued by heroic princes were more likely to rate appearance as important for women, while strength and intelligence were less important.

Those who watched videos of Disney princesses being independent and powerful, such as Merida from Disney’s Brave, were less likely to rate appearance as highly compared with strength and intelligence.

"The study highlights the importance of how gender roles are portrayed in media and reinforces how children’s attitudes are easier to shift when they are younger," Dr Azeem said.

The study concluded that, primarily for younger children, counter-stereotypical media could help reduce gender bias, and that exposure to films such as Brave, Moana and Frozen with brave, independent princesses might be a simple way to change attitudes.

 

rowan.sinclair@odt.co.nz

 

 

 

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