Children's Construction of Fantasy Stories

UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Emily D. Edwards, Professor (Creator)
Institution
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/

Abstract: While much work has been done on sex role development in children, conflict resolution, and sex role stereotyping in literature and television, little research has investigated conflict resolution and stereotyping in the fantasies children create themselves. The present study, analyzing gender differences in children's writing of fantasy stories, found significant differences in conflict resolutions they created. Boys used more violent resolutions to solve problems, while girls used more reasoning and analysis. Stories written by both sexes were— more often than not— sex role stereotyped, with female characters in traditional occupations and passive activities.

Additional Information

Publication
Sex Roles : A Journal of Research 18 (1988): 393-403
Language: English
Date: 1988
Keywords
Sex role development, Children, Conflict resolution, Fantasy stories, Stereotyping, Gender differences

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