Is the Mouse Sensitive? A Study of Race, Gender, and Social Vulnerability in Disney Animated Films

Abstract

This study is a quantitative content analysis of characters appearing in the 19 most successful and most recent Disney animated movies. The focus is on the variables of diversity (including gender, race/ethnicity, and age), assigned roles within the films, and social vulnerability, defined as any life situation or condition that makes one susceptible to being hurt or disadvantaged in some manner, either physically, emotionally, or economically. Results are mixed. There are several positive outcomes for which the Disney Corporation should be applauded, but there are also a number of serious lapses.