Play and Gender

Authors

• Mithra H. Pirooz, University of Nebraska at OmahaFollow
• Jonathan B. Santo, University of Nebraska at OmahaFollow

Document Type

Book Chapter

Publication Date

4-25-2025

Keywords

behavior, children's play, childhood, gender-typed play

Disciplines

Developmental Psychology

Abstract

While children vary greatly in their play preferences, research has shown that gender differences in play tend to emerge fairly young.  These gender differences may be influenced by a variety of sources.  Parents, peers, teachers, and media all impact on children’s play.  Such gender differences have been documented in North American and European countries, including those that are fairly gender-egalitarian, including Sweden.

Recommended Citation

Pirooz, Mithra H. and Santo, Jonathan B., "Play and Gender" (2025). Essays in Developmental Psychology. 160.
https://nsuworks.nova.edu/edp/160