Playroom toy preferences of fifteen masculine and fifteen feminine boys

Abstract

This study explored the hypothesis that young boys described by parents as showing feminine behavior prefer the playthings of girls when given access to girls' and boy's toys. Fifteen boys, aged 4-10, described as frequently cross-dressing, preferring female playmates, showing feminine gestures, and playing a female in games were compared with 15 boys described as masculine. Boys were placed in a room with masculine and feminine toys and observed for 15 min through a one-way mirror. Masculine boys played more with masculine toys and feminine boys more with feminine toys. Toys which best separated the groups were a doll and a truck. Introduction of a parent did not significantly alter these patterns. This procedure may allow for manipulation of parental reaction to the child's toy selection in an effort to modify feminine preferences. © 1972 Academic Press, Inc.