Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate gender stereotyping during episodes of spontaneous pretend play among children adopted by gay male couples. Gender stereotyping in children's play has been reported in different contexts, regarding discussions on their biological, cultural and individual determination. This work is a naturalistic observational study that involved 13 children aged 3-7 years during 16 observation sessions in a Day care playroom. A total of 123 episodes were analyzed, which were categorized by group's formation (number of participants and gender); type and theme of the play; and use of objects. Significant differences were found for all criteria that characterize the play as gender-typed. These findings corroborate other studies among children raised by heterosexual couples. Boys had episodes in larger groups and themes that required more use of space, while girls played in smaller groups and used more toys.
Keywords:
homoparental; adoption; children's play; gender
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