Gender Norms in Disney Movies

In order to fully examine gender roles in Disney movies we examined six movies in depth; Mulan, The Little Mermaid,Cinderella, Aladdin, Lion King and Beauty and the Beast. These movies displayed patriarchal models and strict gender roles that created a sex role theory to fulfill structural functionalism. As we examine gender roles in these movies and the role of feminism we explore some of the first gendered images children are exposed to, and the effects these strict gender norms can have on a child's earliest perceptions of cultural roles.


Enjoy the following video as an introduction to the gender norms displayed in Disney classics!