![Sample our Education journals, sign in here to start your access, latest two full volumes FREE to you for 14 days]({"type":"image" , "src" : "/sda/5932/TOC-Subject-Sample-2021-Education.jpg"})
Abstract
The influence of superhero versus nonsuperhero toys on boys' physically active and imaginative play was studied in 29 dyads (n = 58 middle-class preschool boys; M age = 54.95 mos, SD = 5.28 mos). Each dyad participated in two play sessions: 1) superhero toys (media related) and 2) nonsuperhero (nonmedia related) toys. Dyads were observed for the frequency and quality of roles, themes, level of physical activity in their play, and aggression. Parents reported on their children's favorite television shows. Results indicated that dyads engaged in more character/fictive (media related) roles in the superhero condition and more frequent familial, occupational, exploration, and no roles in the nonsuperhero condition. Dyads were more physically active in the nonsuperhero than superhero condition, and no aggression or violence was observed in either play session. Findings are discussed in light of children's development and implications for educators and parents.
