Is Disney the Nicest Place on Earth? A Content Analysis of Prosocial Behavior in Animated Disney Films

Keywords

prosocial behavior, disney, film, animated movies

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the multidimensionality of prosocial behavior in Disney animated films. Characteristics of the target and initiator and context of each prosocial act were also examined. Prosocial behavior was portrayed at a rate of approximately 1 act per minute, rarely occurred in combination with aggression, targets were most prosocial toward friends, and tended to help those similar to themselves. This study views Disney in a more positive light than past studies by highlighting high levels of prosocial behavior, as well as portrayal that may facilitate imitation. This study also used a broad definition of prosocial behavior that provides a more nuanced picture of the nature of prosocial behavior in children's programming.

Original Publication Citation

Padilla-Walker, L. M., Coyne, S. M., *Fraser, A., & *Stockdale, L. (2013). Is Disney the nicest place on earth? Prosocial behavior in Disney films. Journal of Communication, 63, 393-412.

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

2013-03-11

Permanent URL

http://hdl.lib.byu.edu/1877/5197

Publisher

Journal of Communication

Language

English

College

Family, Home, and Social Sciences

Department

Family Life

University Standing at Time of Publication

Full Professor

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