Examination of gender equality indicators in cartoons for preschool period (TRT Child Channel example)

In the thesis study, it was aimed to examine the indicators of gender equality in 5 cartoons broadcasted on Turkey Radio and Television Corporation (TRT) Child channel. For this purpose, the National production "Ciciki", "Canım Kardeşim", "Biz İkimiz", "Niloya" and "Maysa ve Bulut" cartoons, which were broadcasted on TRT Child, were selected. The 5 most watched episodes of each cartoon were chosen. In total, 25 episodes were examined. The research has qualitative research characteristics. Content analysis, one of the qualitative research methods, was used in the study. In addition, the categories were examined with semiotic analysis. It has been determined that cartoons contain messages about gender inequality. In line with the findings obtained in the category of "Jobs Done Inside and Outside the Home", it was determined that the cartoons examined contain messages about gender inequality and that cartoon characters are reflected in gender roles in a way that forms the basis of stereotypes. A similar result was found in the "Emotions and Personality Traits Category". It has been determined that human emotions are the basis for feminine and masculine characters and stereotypes. The findings obtained in the "Clothing Type and Colours of Cartoon Characters Category" indicate that it is capable of forming stereotypes in gender roles. The distinction between feminine and masculine has been determined in both colour and pattern selection. As a result, findings regarding gender inequality were found in 5 locally produced cartoons broadcasted on TRT Child channel and suggestions were made accordingly.