Hidden in Plain Sight: Gender Bias and Heteronormativity in Dutch Textbooks

In this study, we examined gender and sexuality representation in language and math textbooks for Dutch secondary education. We analyzed all male and female characters in 13 language textbooks (N = 7,347) and 12 math textbooks (N = 4,591). Our results confirmed our expectations based on the theory of the hidden curriculum: female characters were underrepresented in all textbooks (40% in language, 44% in math textbooks), but overrepresented in household tasks and EHW (Education, Health, and Welfare) professions. Male characters were overrepresented in occupational roles, especially in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) professions and technical tasks. Further, female characters in language textbooks were overrepresented in parental roles, and male characters were overrepresented among characters with disharmonious traits and behaviors. We found no characters from sexual minorities in any of the textbooks. In conclusion, in line with theories of the hidden curriculum, Dutch textbooks include gender stereotypic messages and are heteronormative. These findings are relevant in light of previous studies demonstrating the negative impact of these biases on children. Publishers and schools that want to be more inclusive are recommended to be more critical in their selection of stories and role models in their books.