PERCEPTION OF PRIMARY SCHOOL STUDENTS ON FAIRY TALES

Authors

  • Elena Cocorada Transilvania University of Brasov
  • Diana Corina Aldea Transilvania University of BraÈ™ov

Keywords:

fairy tales, gender differences, students, primary school,

Abstract

Fairy tales illustrate differences in gender. Male characters are adventurous,
warriors, engaged in restoring justice, while female characters are passive,
obedient, presented as victims and dependant on the male characters. The paper
presents a mixed research, its objective being the analysis the students’
perceptions on fairy tales. The participants of the study are 129 from six different
classes of fourth grade. For the analysis, Children's Fairy-tales Perception
Questionnaire was applied. The results show that boys view the female characters
as being passive, pleasant and beautiful and the male characters as brave and
powerful, in line with gender stereotypes. This research is useful for teachers and
school counsellors for a better understanding the students’ perception on fairy
tales.

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Published

2018-12-21