2 days ago
- Science
- The Herald Scotland
Harmful gender stereotypes being shaped by popular animated films
The study, entitled 'Mr Predator and Mrs Prey', suggests the pattern reinforces the idea that males are associated with aggression and dominance while females are linked to vulnerability and weakness.
Almost 1,900 animal characters from children's films were analysed and even after accounting for an existing bias, the study found an overwhelming amount of males were predatory characters.
Almost 75% of all characters were male, and 85% of those were predators while in contrast, female prey outnumbered female predators by four to one.
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The study then followed up with 140 children aged between four and 14, and adults aged up to 65 and through a series of interactive tests, it was revealed that many carried those same strong gender beliefs.
It suggests the stereotypes are internalised early in life and are then carried into adulthood where they can persist.
Dr Wood said: 'In the animal world, a predator is no more likely to be a male than female, and likewise for prey but these movies perpetuate this narrative, and children acquire this stereotype young.
'This study shows how easily potentially harmful stereotypes can be learned by children from everyday media. While some argue that stereotypes reflect real world differences, this study demonstrates that children can develop false assumptions and lasting misconceptions that often persist into adulthood.
'In an era where predatory behaviour is increasingly under the media spotlight, both online and in in the real world, it's important to reflect on and properly understand how our perceptions might have been formed, and the impact these messages can have on individuals.'
There are now growing calls for more nuanced and responsible portrayals in the many forms of media consumed by young children during critical developmental stages.
One of the central themes of his Netflix series Adolescence is how social media has an influence on children, and how harmful stereotypes of masculinity can affect young people in their teenage years and shape perceptions of gender roles and behaviour.
Dr Wood believes it is important to change those perceptions from an early age with more balanced gender roles in animated films.
Dr Wood added: 'While some progress has been made toward greater gender representation in media—such as efforts by filmmakers to challenge traditional portrayals like the 'rescued princess'—the work is far from complete.
'To build a more equal society, we need to critically examine and reform the messages we send to our children. This study also highlights the need for further interdisciplinary research into how media influences development and stereotype formation.
'It's a reminder that what we expose children to - whether intentionally or not - has a profound impact, often more than we realise.'
