Abstract

of

THE DIMENSIONS OF THE MYTH OF THE DISNEY MALE ROLE MODEL

by

Jennifer Lynn Daniels

Statement of Problem

This was an exploratory study to identify stereotypes that occur in Disney films. It is an attempt to look at the stereotypical behaviors of males and count the amount of times these behaviors are depicted in the movies. This study will address the following questions, “What stereotypes are shown? How many times are these stereotypes seen in the film? and How do eighth grade students see male characters in a Disney film?” Overall, this study sought to obtain a better understanding of the stereotypes that are portrayed in the countless Disney films that have been produced since their first animated film Snow White and the Seven Dwarves in 1937. In addition, this thesis hypothesizes the impact the media has on our impressionable youth.

Sources of Data

The data that was analyzed were ten Disney animated films, and the reactions from eighth grade students on male characters in the movie, Beauty and the Beast (1991). The study was a content analysis on the films. Participants were asked to have a consent letter filled out by their parents to be able to participate in the study.

Conclusions Reached

It was without question that stereotypes were depicted in Disney animated films. It was surprising to see that amount of times these stereotypes were shown in the films. The stereotypes have harmful affects on the boys and men that are viewing these films. The next step that should be taken is to have parents engage in conversations with their children about the material that they are watching and the idea that the images that they are seeing in the media are not reality.