Children's narratives and gender roles

Analysis of stereotypes in classic tales

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.34024/prometeica.2025.32.20885

Keywords:

gender stereotypes, classic children's stories, gender socialization, inclusive narratives

Abstract

The present research aimed to analyze gender stereotypes in classic children's stories. It was carried out in an early childhood education institution in Huamanga, Ayacucho (Peru), with the participation of 5-year-old girls and boys. A qualitative methodology was used based on classroom observation, interviews with teachers and parents, as well as a detailed analysis of stories such as Little Red Riding Hood, Snow White, Sleeping Beauty and Cinderella. The results showed that these stories perpetuate gender stereotypes by depicting female protagonists as fragile, obedient and dependent on a male figure, while male characters embody courage and decision-making. Likewise, it was observed that beauty is a central attribute in female characters and domestic roles are reinforced for women. In conclusion, these stories contribute to the reproduction of traditional gender models, which highlights the need for a more critical and equitable education that promotes inclusive and diverse narratives in childhood.

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Author Biographies

  • Gisela Herreras Gutiérrez, San Cristóbal of Huamanga University

    Mg. en educación infantil con publicaciones de articulos científicos y docente de la universidad

  • Julissa Anaya Espinoza, San Cristóbal of Huamanga University

    .

  • Delia Ayala Esquivel, San Cristóbal of Huamanga University

    .

  • Urcina Loayza Gomez , San Cristóbal of Huamanga University

    .

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Prometeica v.32

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2025-11-20

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Vol. 32 (2025): Prometeica - v 32 (03/2025 - 12/2025)

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Copyright (c) 2025 Gisela Herreras Gutiérrez, Julissa Anaya Espinoza, Delia Ayala Esquivel, Urcina Loayza Gomez

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Received 2025-07-29
Accepted 2025-11-14
Published 2025-11-20

How to Cite

Herreras Gutiérrez, G., Anaya Espinoza, J. ., Ayala Esquivel, D. ., & Loayza Gomez , U. . (2025). Children’s narratives and gender roles: Analysis of stereotypes in classic tales. Prometeica - Journal of Philosophy and Science, 32, e20885 (1-17). https://doi.org/10.34024/prometeica.2025.32.20885