Characteristics of Caregivers in Disney Animations

Abstract

Objectives: To assess Disney’s animated films regarding development of the conception of family for children, we examined types and roles of caregivers in films. Methods: The subjects were 54 Disney animations, from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937) to Moana (2016). The authors found one main character and one person (or animal) as a caregiver, who (which) takes care of a main character in each film. We analyzed the caregivers’ type, and assessed the role as a caregiver was given to a main character, especially in the case where parents are living. Results: In classifying the type of caregivers, 24 (44.5%) cases have both parents (adoptive or biologic) living in the films, no comments about parents in 21 (38.9%) cases, and orphaned main characters in 9 (16.6%) cases. Among the 24 animations in which parent(s) can be identified, caregivers in 9 animations fulfilled full functions fit for the criteria as caregivers. Conclusion: From the perspective of family, Disney animations have)