Effects of Racial Stereotypes and Attitudes on Peer Acceptance  and Teacher Preference Among Arab Kindergarten Children

Alrashidi, Alanoud; Alkhayat, Laila

doi:10.21608/jealex.2025.366605.1091

Effects of Racial Stereotypes and Attitudes on Peer Acceptance and Teacher Preference Among Arab Kindergarten Children

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Associate professor in early childhood education - College of Education, Kuwait University .

10.21608/jealex.2025.366605.1091

Abstract

This qualitative research investigated the effects of kindergarten children’s racial stereotypes and attitudes on peer acceptance as well as their perceptions of teachers of different races in a culturally homogeneous school environment. A three-phase data collection approach comprising participant observation, individual interviews, and focus groups explored the effects of children's racial stereotypes and attitudes toward racial groups on their identification of positive and negative traits in children of other races and their expectations of how others look, think, feel, and act. The sample included 14 kindergarten children, 8 girls and 6 boys. The results revealed positive attitudes toward White individuals and negative stereotypes toward Black individuals. Asian individuals were perceived neutrally and often associated with domestic roles. The findings also suggest that cultural and religious factors influence children's racial perceptions, shaping their social behaviors and preferences. The insights gained from this research are pivotal for educators, policymakers, and researchers dedicated to fostering inclusive and diverse learning environments for all children. Furthermore, the findings contribute to the broader understanding of the development of racial stereotypes in young children.

Keywords

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