Analyzing Hidden Elements in Disney Movies and Effects on Children

Abstract

Disney characters and themes are inspiring for children. There is much more than an apparent setting of the Disney movies. Children learn to respect and help others; they also absorb some hidden messages. This research also aims to examine the hidden elements in the content produced by Disney as a major entertainment corporation. The researcher analyzed relevant movies and found prominent elements, i.e., escape, sexual content, jealousy, and stereotyping. Notably, parents of Disney movies' viewers do not guide their children or discuss the movies with the children to increase the potential influence of the movies on little minds. The effects of Disney movies include fear, low confidence, egoism, unrealistic expectations, ignorance, daydreaming, and contentment. Further, we have discussed the results and proposed recommendations for future researchers.

I'm not, like, the best dragon, ya know?: A Deconstructionist Reading of Disney’s Raya and the Last Dragon

“…That being said, adults may have been continuously exposed to Disney's animated movies during their childhood and formative years, which is very likely to have an impact (Gray, 2019). Several studies investigated the influence of Disney's movies on modern society (Bazzini et al, 2010;England et al, 2011;Hine et al, 2018;Maity, 2014;Robinson et al, 2007;Saleh & Salih, 2022;Siddique et al, 2021). A study by Robinson, for instance, analyzed 34 Disney animated movies from 1937 up to 2004 and found that most older characters were portrayed positively (Robinson et al, 2007).…”

“…The finding, they argued, helped explain why children had negative feelings towards older people. Analyzing 21 Disney movies and surveying 50 parents of young viewers of Disney movies, a study by Siddique et al (2021) reported that Disney movies carried several prominent elements such as escape, jealousy, sexual content, and stereotyping. The study further suggested that with low guidance from the parents, children were at risk of being exposed to the content without filtering capability.…”