Marcela Uchôa

Deconstructing Stereotypes from Childhood, the Case of Portugal

Tatiana Moura, Marcela Uchôa, Patrícia Ferreira, Marta Mascarenhas, Sofia Gonçalves and Patrícia Santos

This article examines the early development of social gender norms in children, emphasizing how family and school environments influence their attitudes and gender expectations. It centers on the KINDER project, active from 2021 to 2023, which aimed to address gender stereotypes in early childhood and elementary education. Drawing on theories by Althusser and Freire, it suggests transformative educational practices to challenge existing norms. Utilizing methods such as focused interviews and quantitative research, the project devises an inclusive approach with educational resources and campaigns promoting empathy, nurturing masculinities, and diversity in curricula. The article underscores the ongoing necessity for initiatives to cultivate more equitable and inclusive educational environments.

Moura, Tatiana; Silva Uchôa, Marcela; Ferreira, Patrícia; Mascarenhas, Marta; Gonçalves, Sofia; Santos, Patrícia. “Will Boys Be Boys? Be KINDER”. Boyhood Studies (2024): 1-26. Berghahn Journals, New York http://dx.doi.org/10.3167/bhs.2024.1015of101