Exploring Gender Constancy and Identity Formation in Early Childhood: Insights from a Pilot Study in India

Abstract

This study examines the development of gender identity among Indian children, using Kohlberg’s cognitive developmental theory as the framework. Unlike most prior research conducted in Western contexts, this pilot study explores how gender constancy, gender roles, and stereotypes are formed in early childhood within an Indian cultural setting. Two children aged four and five were interviewed using a semi-structured format. Results highlight that early awareness of gender labelling and stereotypical roles are both influenced by parental reinforcement and cultural cues. The findings support the cognitive-developmental model and also offer culturally nuanced implications for future large-scale research.