Examination of Old Age Representation in Picturebooks: Inquiring Stereotypes, Embracing Diversity

Abstract

Representation preferences are at the core of picturebooks since they often
prime children’s perception about the world. More specifically, the representation of old
age holds especial importance, as it shapes perceptions that influence attitudes towards
aging, subsequently impacting the manner in which individuals age. Depictions of old age
have the capacity to impact intergenerational relationships and the overall well-being of
older adults within societies. In this article, we examine depictions of old age in contemporary
Turkish picturebooks published between 2013 and 2023. The study aims to assess
the verbal and visual narratives of selected picturebooks from a pluralistic perspective. We
mainly examine how these books reflect diversity and promote positive attitudes towards
aging. In our content analysis, we looked for various facets of portraying old age such as
role, environment, outlook, and experience. We recorded repetitive patterns for positive
and negative stereotypical features that at times lead to a similarity in depictions of old
age. We discuss ways to further empower or empathize with old-age characters, and hence
support constructing affirmative attitudes towards aging. Thus, we propose a guide chart
to promote pluralistic strategies for varied depictions of old age.