Abstract
M.Com. (Information Science)
Although the influence of literature cannot be determined
exactly, it is generally accepted that it can influence
attitudes and values and therefore play an important role in
the socializing process of the adolescent. One of the most
important processes the adolescent undergoes is the
development of his/her sex role through socialization, within
the context of the family and society at large.
In addition the traditional role of women through the ages has
undergone such substantial changes that women play an
increasingly important part in society. The modern woman can
attain self-realization and self-expression through marriage,
motherhood and a career.
The problem addressed in this research, is whether the
portrayal of women in available youth literature is a
realistic reflection of society at a particular point. The
ideal is that the attitudes that are projected are not biased
toward either of the sexes and that boys as well as girls may
develop to their full potential within the prescribed
boundaries of their sex roles.
Because of the feminist interest, much research has been done
since the sixties and seventies regarding sexism in children's
and youth literature. Virtually throughout, the findings of
these investigations showed that the female characters are
portrayed as passive stereotypes.
The portrayal of women in literature awarded with the
Scheepers Prize for Afrikaans youth literature is investigated
in this research.