Family Dynamics in Asian American Children's Books
Primary Investigator (PI) Name
Jinhee Kim
Department
BCOE - Elementary & Early Childhood Education
Abstract
The children's books act as both mirrors—helping kids see their own experiences—and windows, allowing them to understand different family dynamics. This study examines the portrayal of family life in Asian American children's books, with particular attention to male characters within family dynamics. By analyzing 18 selected books published in English from 2008 to 2024, it explores how narratives surrounding male characters reflect the complexities of Asian American families. The sampled books underwent content analysis, focusing on relationships with other family members, cultural elements, and intergenerational interactions. The findings reveal that while some books celebrate cultural heritage and strong family bonds, there remains a need for more diverse representations of male characters in Asian American families. This research highlights the importance of culturally relevant literature in making children's books more inclusive and representative of diverse experiences.
Disciplines
Bilingual, Multilingual, and Multicultural Education | Early Childhood Education
Family Dynamics in Asian American Children's Books
The children's books act as both mirrors—helping kids see their own experiences—and windows, allowing them to understand different family dynamics. This study examines the portrayal of family life in Asian American children's books, with particular attention to male characters within family dynamics. By analyzing 18 selected books published in English from 2008 to 2024, it explores how narratives surrounding male characters reflect the complexities of Asian American families. The sampled books underwent content analysis, focusing on relationships with other family members, cultural elements, and intergenerational interactions. The findings reveal that while some books celebrate cultural heritage and strong family bonds, there remains a need for more diverse representations of male characters in Asian American families. This research highlights the importance of culturally relevant literature in making children's books more inclusive and representative of diverse experiences.