Describes 2 studies in which experienced and inexperienced preschool teachers were observed during children's free play periods. It was suggested that inexperienced teachers tend to go along with children's play perferences, while experienced teachers direct the children into activities they consider more important to academic success (i. e.,…

Toddler children and their parents were observed in their homes using an observation checklist. Parent behaviors were categorized as positive, negative, or neutral, and parental reactions to specific child behaviors were examined to determine if the sex of the child or the actual behavior influenced the type of parental reaction. (Author/JMB)

The play behaviors of three groups of preschool children were compared. The physically abused children (N=11) were more antisocial, disruptive, and aggressive yet passive. The 15 sexually abused children were relatively quiet and engaged in more female-type activities, while 10 non-abused control group children exhibited more positive peer…

Investigated sex differences in the behavior patterns of toddlers and subsequent parental reactions. Data was obtained from observations in the homes of subjects, and compared to parents' answers on a child rearing questionnaire. (DP)

The purpose of this 2-year study was to examine the relationship of choice of play-style and sex of child to the type of feedback (positive or negative) children receive from teachers and peer groups for their behavior. A list of 33 child behaviors and 15 teacher and peer reactions was used to observe the behavior of 67 children (32 boys and 35…

The continuity of play styles of preschool children over a 1-year period was observed and related to teacher and peer reinforcement patterns influenced by sex stereotypes. Sixty-seven children, aged 18 months to 58 months, were observed in a natural setting using a behavior checklist consisting of 33 child behavior categories and 15 teacher- and…

Tests the ability of 43 children, ranging in age from 20 months to 40 months, to discriminate between pictures of boys and girls and male and female adults. Compares children who passed this gender-task with those who failed it on three behaviors most often categorized as sex-typed: toy choice, aggression, and peer playmate selection. (HOD)

Describes a study of the relationship between the play styles of 2- to 3-year-olds and the types of social reactions they receive. Reports that gender is one significant determinant: high activity level in girls received few positive reactions from either peers or teachers, and traditional sex-role behaviors elicited more positive responses. (KH)

The assertive acts of 48 toddlers and the responses of peers and teachers were registered. It is argued that the higher response rate recorded for boys' acts informs the child that such behavior will produce an effect in his world, while the lack of response to girls' acts suggest the opposite to girls. (Author/RDN)

The sex role choices of preschool children were observed for two years in a free play situation to determine what the consequences of such choices are for the types of play chosen and for social behaviors. The sex role factor was plotted on four quadrants: Masculine (M), Feminine (F), Androgynous and Low on both M and F (LMF). The children who…

Attractiveness ratings of 50 children (26 males and 24 females) aged 12-38 months are studied in relation to adults' socializing behavior and attitude toward them. Correlations between attractiveness scores and child behavior reflect sex differences. A greater impact of attractiveness on girls' development than boys is noted. (SLD)