Content analysis of cultural identity in New Zealand junior children's picture books, 2000-2005

Abstract

This research explores the representation of cultural identity in New Zealand junior children's picture books published from 2000-2005. Cultural identity is a contentious and emotive issue; and the subject of considerable debate. This debate has informed the theoretical framework and shaped the manner of dealing with the subject matter. Fifty books were sampled from the National Children's Collection at the National Library of New Zealand and examined using a mixed methods approach, with quantitative and qualitative components. Content analysis was used to extract detailed data about the books and the representation of themes of cultural identity and analysed in conjunction with qualitative observations. This study examines elements of New Zealand cultural identity in broad sections and makes links where relationships exist between the categories. It was found that elements of New Zealand cultural identity are often represented in a stereotypical manner, particularly with regard to national character. Twenty-first century New Zealand appears to be less dynamic than it is in reality, due to the limited representation of diverse family groups and ethnic minorities.