International Journal of Academic Multidisciplinary Research (IJAMR)   Year: 2022 | Volume: 6 | Issue: 6 | Page No.: 275-286 Challenging Gender Stereotypes through the Selection of Gender-Neutral Texts in Philippines School Context Download PDF Liwag, Mecaella Joy D.; Ramirez, Dianne M. and Santiago, Geraldine S. Abstract: From 1970's, gendering literature for children has been a topic of interest among researchers. As stated in social learning theory, children learn through their observations and experiences in their environment, and one of the factors that influence their perception are literary texts. Thus, this paper explores the implications of using Gender-Neutral Texts to the gender stereotyping behavior of early childhood education students. The researchers used Jung's Archetypal Theory to examine the characteristics of a gender-neutral literature to be used to challenge gender roles which are still existing today. The study employed narrative research design and textual analysis using a qualitative research approach. The participants were early childhood teachers who worked in both public and private schools. The data which was used to identify the effects of gender-neutral literature was collected through in-depth interviews. The findings of this study reveal that the characteristics of a gender-neutral literature involves atypical characters and morals of the study which condemns the view of gender stereotypes. Based on the narrative given by the participants of the study, the researchers found little to no significant change on the gender stereotyping behavior of students even with the use of gender-neutral texts, rather, presenting atypical characters provoke their interest and open discussions about gender stereotypes. This may have been brought by the new observation that children are already open towards the shift on sharing of roles in the society.