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Gender role portrayal of parents in Hong Kong children’s literature: Egalitarian or stereotyping?
Date Issued
2026
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Journal
ISSN
1098-092X
1936-4717
Citation
Gender Issues, 2026, vol. 43, article no. 5.
Type
Peer Reviewed Journal Article
Abstract
This study examines the depiction of parental roles in Hong Kong children’s picture books published between 2012 and 2022, focusing on whether these books portray parents as equals or reinforce traditional gender stereotypes. We analyzed 29 picture books using quantitative content analysis, recording the textual and visual frequency of parental appearances, mentions, emotional expressions, disciplinary actions, nurturing behaviors, daily caregiving activities, and economic roles. The results indicate that mothers were depicted significantly more frequently than fathers, predominantly engaging in affectionate actions (p < .001), caregiving (p < .001), and emotional expressions (p < .05). Fathers were underrepresented and portrayed as less involved in daily caregiving and emotional expression, aligning with traditional gender roles. These findings reveal a significant imbalance in the portrayal of parental roles in Hong Kong’s picture books, with mothers shown as primary caregivers and fathers as less engaged figures. This study highlights the need for more balanced depictions of parents in children’s literature to support gender equality in socialization processes. Addressing these imbalances can contribute to reducing the perpetuation of gender stereotypes, fostering more equitable and diverse representations in literature aimed at young audiences.
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