Characteristics of Chinese stories for children

Characteristics of Chinese stories for children
 
There are social and emotional differences between stories written for American/European children and for Chinese children that influence the children’s development and teach them about the world around them. 
 American/European narrative focuses on independence and  the child is encouraged to develop autonomy and assertiveness. The protagonists have adventures during which they personally grow, meet challenges and overcome their own individual difficulties.  


Chinese narrative highlights interdependence, social class, thoughtfulness. The characters fulfil missions in which they need to assist their friends, help family or social circles. Morality and discipline are stressed and the children are oriented towards becoming part of the society. 


It is often obtained by introducing more characters who have to interact with one another or making the main character part of a group. The character is preoccupied with forming lasting relationships and behaving according to a set of moral values. In Chinese stories, the idea of authority is strongly introduced. The characters need to accomplish tasks to gain approval, award, social standing and  risk disapproval, disappointment and shame in case the task has not been accomplished. 


According to Wang Leichtman (2000), the fact that the children are introduced to both positive and negative emotions within a group results in them being more emphatic and sensitive, as well as more aware of their own feelings and emotions. American/European characters are mostly preoccupied with their personal growth, their own preferences and independent decisions. 


This diversity of content in children's stories across cultures shows that even at an early stage of development, pre-school children are socialized differently, contributing to the diversity of cultures but at the same time upholding the constructs of the culture they are brought up in.




Reference: 

Wang, Qi, and Michelle D. Leichtman. “Same Beginnings, Different Stories: A Comparison of American and Chinese Children’s Narratives.” Child Development, vol. 71, no. 5, 2000, pp. 1329–46, http://www.jstor.org/stable/1131977. Accessed 9 May 2022.






https://www.npr.org/sections/goatsandsoda/2018/01/06/573869099/whats-the-difference-between-children-s-books-in-china-and-the-u-s?t=1653126942680


https://chinesebooksforyoungreaders.wordpress.com/2018/01/07/whats-the-difference-between-childrens-books-in-china-and-the-us/

Comments

  1. Sam DarganMay 17, 2022 at 10:49 AM

    This is one long quote and not how you should be doing your research! Think of the value this adds to your project if you don't comment on it or write in your own words!

    ReplyDelete

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