Notable American Women Artists and Musicians: Childhood Traits and Environmental Factors

• In Event: Roundtable Session 29
  In Roundtable Session: Biographical Accounts of Notable Women: Early Social, Cultural, and Environmental Factors

Abstract

Studies have been conducted to understand the childhoods of eminent individuals in the areas of science, music, politics, and the visual arts (Cox, 1926; Walberg et al, 1981). Walberg’s (1981) study included such eminent people as Lord Byron, Mozart, Newton, and Lincoln. They rated the early psychological traits and conditions of their families, peer groups, and other environmental conditions based on American and European biographical encyclopedias. Amongst several findings, the early lives of eminent creative writers were generally exposed to motivating cultural, educational, and family conditions. Focusing on males, the results of the study were corroborated by psychologists who used case studies, statistical analyses, and various techniques to uncover the conditions that foster creativity.
Given the lack of research on successful females in the arts and music, the purpose of this study was to investigate the childhood traits and factors that influence notable American women artists (N=21) and musicians (N=26). Biographies were selected from Sicherman & Green’s (1980) book, Notable American Women, to study notable female artists and musicians. Eminent women were selected based on their significance and influence in the field, innovations found in the work, and achievements relevant to the history of women. According to the editors, the notable American women artists and musicians in this period of time continued to create opportunities for both groups as they had in the past. Other resources included books, journals, and newspapers.
The theoretical framework employed Walberg’s productivity model. A biographical rating form was used to investigate individual aptitude, instruction, and the environment. The researcher read the biographical information concerning the traits and environmental characteristics that transpired during the early years up to age 13. The data analysis involved content analysis and chi-square analysis, where the early psychological and environmental characteristics were contrasted with notable women in other professions.
Generally, while there were several themes, the women came from economically advantaged backgrounds or from families encouraging the education of daughters. They lived at a time when few women attended college or had careers outside the home. The majority had some education beyond high school and many went on to college or special schools. Encouraged by parents, teachers, and adults at an early age, they were also exposed to many adults and eminent persons during their early years. The implications of this study offer important findings as to supportive learning environments in the home and school.

Author

• Winifred E. Stariha, University of Illinois at Chicago