CHILDREN’S LITERATURE & GENDER DISCRIMINATION

This paper intends to analyze stereotype construction of gender roles in the text of children's stories which inculcate in the children's crude minds socially developed gender differences. The manner in which Genders are represented in children's literature impacts children's attitudes and perceptions of Gender-appropriate behavior in society . Sexism in literature can be so insidious that it quietly conditions boys and girls to accept the way they 'see and read the world,' thus reinforcing gender images. This reinforcement predisposes children to not question existing social relationships. At the same time, however, books containing images that conflict with gender stereotypes provide children the opportunity to re-examine their gender beliefs and assumptions. Thus, texts can provide children with alternative role models and inspire them to adopt more egalitarian gender attitudes. This Paper would be beneficial in drawing the attention of authors, editors and writers of children's literature to redefine gender roles in order to minimize gender differences.