Representations of Deaf Characters in Children's Picture Books

Abstract

Picture books can influence how children perceive people of different backgrounds, including people with disabilities whose cultures differ from their own. Researchers have examined the portrayal of multicultural characters with disabilities in children's literature. However, few have specifically considered the portrayal of deaf characters, despite increased inclusion of deaf characters in children's literature over the past two decades. The present study analyzed the portrayal of deaf characters in picture books for children ages 4-8 years. A content analysis of 20 children's picture books was conducted in which the books were analyzed for messages linked to pathological and cultural categories. Results indicated that these books did not portray Deaf characters from a cultural perspective but, rather, highlighted aspects of deafness as a medical condition, one that requires fixing and that perpetuates stereotypes of deafness as a disability.

Prominent Messages in Television DramaSwitched at BirthPromote Attitude Change Toward Deafness

“…Nevertheless, what work has been done is promising. Golos and Moses (2011) cited the higher self-esteem of children who are deaf that comes from exposure to positive deaf role models in children's picture books. However, it should be noted that these books (20 picture books intended for children ages 4-8 years old) did not portray deafness as a cultural identity but rather as a medical condition requiring a cure, which runs counter to the values of mainstream Deaf culture.…”

“…Based on previous findings of favorable cognitive intervention effects (Golos & Moses, 2011, Ju, 2005, Zahn & Kelly, 1995 Also under study are the dimensions of attitude change. Based on social cognitive theory, we predict that television viewers may learn about deafness and Deaf culture from the messages in the episodes and by observing the actions of the characters.…”

Public Library Services to Deaf Families and Deaf Children

“…Golos and Moses (2011) studied the representation of deaf characters in children's picture books. For deaf and hearing children, the representation of deaf characters can either provide a positive example or perpetuate harmful stereotypes.…”

“…The first presents deafness as medical condition to be fixed, while the second celebrates the culture that the Deaf community shares. In the picture books of the study, Golos & Moses (2011) identified the pathological model most frequently. Fortunately, resources exist to help libraries make the best purchases possible.…”

Rethinking the portrayal of deaf characters in children's picture books

“…In this article we will discuss the lack of, and critical need for, children's books that portray Deaf 1 characters from a cultural perspective. We will also provide examples, from a sampling of children's picture books, of messages about deafness and deaf characters in text and illustrations (e.g., Golos and Moses, 2011; Golos et al, 2012). Finally, we will highlight the implications for both hearing and d/Deaf children as well as parents and educators.…”