Para além dos contos de fada: princesas Disney e concepções de gênero na perspectiva de adolescentes

Abstract

This study is situated at the intersection between gender, human development, and media, aiming to analyze gender conceptions from the perspective of self-identified cisgender adolescent girls through Disney Princess movies, focusing on the representations of Disney Princesses and their impact on gender conception and socialization during adolescence. Using the Bioecological Theory of Human Development, Gender Studies, and Feminist Theories as a foundation, this qualitative study involved the participation of four adolescents aged 13 to 17, residing in three states from two regions of Brazil. Data production methods included reacts and semi-structured and unstructured interviews, analyzed using an inductive approach centered on Thematic Analysis. The results highlight Disney Princesses as gender technologies shaping social norms adherent to patriarchal, capitalist, and colonial ideals, contributing to critical reflection on gender roles and stereotypes in society. The adolescents demonstrated a critical understanding of gender representations in films and discussed the influence of these narratives on their own gender conceptions. The analysis revealed the influence of animations on adolescents' perceptions of femininity, masculinity, and gender stereotypes, considering various social and cultural contexts. Despite some evolutions in Princess representations, challenges related to perpetuating gender stereotypes still persist. This study reinforces the need for critical and educational approaches to promote a deeper understanding of gender dynamics in adolescence, with implications for interventions and public policies aimed at promoting a more inclusive and egalitarian society.