Publication Date: 2023/12/14
Abstract: This research explores the multifaceted impact of short stories on children, examining their influence on social, cultural, moral, and cognitive dimensions. Through a mixed-methods approach, we conducted a qualitative analysis of 50 popular children's short stories, focusing on themes and developmental content. Additionally, a quantitative study involving 5-10 year-old participants evaluated the effects on social cognition, cultural values, moral reasoning, and cognitive skills. The results revealed common themes of friendship, conflict resolution, and moral messaging. Significant gains were observed in perspective taking, moral reasoning, and overall cognitive abilities among the short story group compared to controls. Anthropomorphic portrayals were associated with increased stereotypical attitudes, highlighting the complex interplay of cultural values in short stories. These findings contribute to a comprehensive understanding of short stories' role in childhood development.
Keywords: Short Stories, Children, Social Impact, Cultural Influence, Moral Messaging, Cognitive Development, Developmental Outcomes, Anthropomorphism.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10376883
PDF: https://ijirst.demo4.arinfotech.co/assets/upload/files/IJISRT23DEC201.pdf
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