Gender Role Depictions in Arabic Children’s Picture Books

• In Event: A Critical Critique of Cultural Representations in Children’s Picture Books

Abstract

This study investigates gender role depictions in Arabic children's picture books. Social cognitive theory, gender schema theory, and critical literacy pedagogy guided the study. A sample of 26 picture books were analyzed using qualitative multi-method approaches (qualitative content analysis, critical content analysis, and social semiotic analysis). The findings revealed a dominance of human and female depictions on the books’ covers and insides. Both genders were prominently portrayed in traditional roles, inside and outside the home. Males were characterized by independence and financial authority and connected to means of transportation. Females showed more association with children and their care. In contrast, less gendered portrayals of males and females were prominent in depictions of levels of interests, problem-solving, and creativity.

Author

• Aljawharah Almuqbil, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University