How Older Adults Are Shown in Children's Media
Author Information
Author(s): Domnick Hallory, Celine Manternach, Melinda Heinz
Primary Institution: University of Northern Iowa
Hypothesis
Older adults are often portrayed negatively in children's media, which may influence children's perceptions of this population.
Conclusion
Children's media often depicts older adults in stereotypical roles, but there are positive portrayals that can influence children's views.
Supporting Evidence
- Older adults are often shown needing assistive devices in children's media.
- Positive portrayals include grandparents being affectionate and fun.
- Older adults are mostly depicted as grandparents and rarely in other roles.
- Some media included older adults identifying as LGBTQ+.
- PBS Kids is more likely to show older adults positively compared to Disney+.
Takeaway
This study looked at how older people are shown in kids' books and shows. It found that while they are often shown as grandparents, there are also some nice stories about them.
Methodology
Analysis of 30 children's picture books and 15 children's shows for portrayals of older adults.
Limitations
The study only analyzed media from the last 10 years and may not represent all children's media.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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