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 an atypical family structure, and reveal an insufficient caregiver role. This perspective must be considered in the short and long term, as to how the character of caregivers in these animations may influence development of the conception of a family in youth.