Date of Conferral

12-11-2025

Date of Award

December 2025

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Psychology

Advisor

Sandra Rasmussen

Abstract

Children’s animated films have often been analyzed for problematic depictions of gender and cultural stereotypes, but far less attention has been given to how these narratives may portray psychological adversity and transformation. This study addressed this gap by examining how posttraumatic growth (PTG) is symbolized through the narrative arcs of ten Disney films released between 2013 and 2023. The purpose of this research was to explore how these films illustrate themes of emotional transformation, utilizing a theoretical foundation based on Tedeschi and Calhoun’s PTG model, which emphasizes five domains of growth following adversity: appreciation of life, enhanced relationships, personal strength, new possibilities, and spiritual development. The guiding research question asked how PTG is represented in children’s animated films through narrative structure, character development, and emotional themes. Using a basic qualitative design, this study employed latent content analysis to identify symbolic markers of adversity and growth across 10 animated feature films, combining theory-driven coding with inductive theme development. Data was gathered through multiple film viewings, transcript reviews, and iterative coding processes to identify recurring motifs and narrative patterns aligned with PTG. Findings from this study have the potential to highlight how children’s media can serve as a resource for emotional literacy and positive coping, offering practical insights for educators, parents, and mental health professionals. Ultimately, this research seeks to support positive social change by demonstrating how storytelling in animated films can model resilience, meaning making, and growth in ways that inspire young audiences.

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