Gender-biased toys: A multimodal analysis of gender roles portrayed in children's dolls

Abstract

: This paper discusses how toys reflect dominant gender discourses and enable children to enact these discourses through play. Specifically, we examine the Brazilian doll Bebê Surpresa , using Social Semiotics as conceptualized by Halliday (1985) and the Grammar of Visual Design developed by Kress and Van Leeuwen (2006) to under - stand how gender ideologies are conveyed through language and visual design. While the doll is marketed as a modern recreation of baby shower practices, our analysis suggests that it reinforces binary gender roles and their associated social functions, perpetuating gender stereo - types. By analyzing the design and discourse of Bebê Surpresa , we aim to contribute to a broader understanding of how gender ideologies are communicated through children’s toys and play.