Running head: GENDER ROLE RELATIONSHIPS.
The Relationship between Gender Roles and Role Relationships as portrayed in Children's Books.
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Gender Roles 2.
Abstract.
Based on precise operational definitions for literature characters and certain characteristics, the relationship between gender roles and role relationships was tested. The results failed to support prior research of a significant relationship between the two, suggesting that equity in gender representation has been achieved. The elimination of gender misrepresentations and stereotypes will result in healthier child development, helping in the formation of a child's self-concept and gender identity. .
Gender Roles 3.
The Relationship between Gender Roles and Role Relationships as portrayed in Children's Books.
Throughout psychology it is clear that child development is a major focus of interest. From Freud to Erikson, many have studied the field. The ongoing, evolving process of research in child development has led to a continuously increasing base of knowledge in the field that has and will continue to help many. It is an established and accepted view that a child's development is greatly influenced by his surroundings. Whether it is one's culture, religion, or background, one's environment plays an integral part in development. While parents, friends, teachers, etc., are all obvious role models for children, television and books also serve as behavioral models on which children rely. .
It is a well-known idea that a child is heavily influenced and affected by his surroundings. From a very early age a child begins to develop a self-concept. There are many socializing tools/agents that contribute to the values and concepts a child learns. One tool through which children learn a lot from at a young age is books. One's self-esteem and identity can be greatly influenced by the ideas portrayed in books. Gender identity, the child's knowledge of his/her sex and the implications associated with it, is developed early in a child's life and is based on the gender roles that children perceive (Shaw, 1998).
