A Rainbow For Reading: A Mixed-Methods Exploratory Study On Drag Queen Reading Programs. Issue 3 (3rd July 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Radis, Brie; Wenocur, Katharine; Jin, Jeffrey; Keeler, Colleen
• Is Part Of: Journal of creativity in mental health. Volume 17:Issue 3(2022)
• Page Start: 332
• Page End: 349
• Publication Date: 2022-07-03
• Subjects: Drag queen reading programs -- caregivers -- gender expression -- creativity in counseling; Psychotherapy -- Periodicals; Arts -- Therapeutic use -- Periodicals; Cultural psychiatry -- Periodicals; Counseling -- Periodicals; Counseling -- Study and teaching -- Periodicals; 616.89165
• DOI: 10.1080/15401383.2021.1892557
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1540-1383

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This exploratory mixed-methods study sought to understand some of the potential psychoeducational benefits of drag queen reading programs. A short mixed-methods survey was employed that asked caregivers about their experiences with drag queen reading programs. Since this is a topic with little prior research, ethnographic observations of three different drag queen reading programs were also completed to gain more knowledge of the public realm of a modality that challenges cisheteronormativity of gender expression. Over 86% of the respondents enjoyed the program and would recommend it to a friend. A majority of respondents (72%) shared that their children enjoyed the programming, and a little more than half (65%) felt like it was age appropriate. The qualitative results suggest that storytimes may be more effective if they cater to a specific developmental range (such as for all ages, toddlers and infants, and school-aged children). The qualitative and ethnographic results highlighted themes such as increased knowledge around gender expression and gender identity and teaching families more about acceptance and difference.