Mechanisms of identification with cartoon characters have a significant impact on the formation of behavioral models and self-identification in children.

Cartoon Impressions: Shaping Childhood Behavior and Identity

Mechanisms of identification with cartoon characters have a significant impact on the formation of behavioral models and self-identification in children. Children do not merely observe the actions of on-screen heroes; they almost automatically and subconsciously adopt and repeat what they see. An important aspect is that a child identifies not only with a character’s outward behavior but also with their facial expressions and emotional responses. This reflects in their inner sense of self, as facial expressions and intonations become part of their own repertoire of emotional communication.

As noted in one source, “The poor things simply mimic what they see on the screen. This is also a consequence of identification. … it has long been known that the behavioral models demonstrated by the charming on-screen heroes are very attractive to viewers (especially the young)” (source: link txt). This means that the appeal and demonstrative nature of a character’s behavior can have a powerful impact, causing the child to imitate even those models that may have a negative character.

Furthermore, one of the authors explains: “What is it for?

— The fact is that a child identifies not only with the character’s behavior. The mechanisms of imitation in children are reflexive and so subtle that they allow them to capture the slightest emotional changes, the tiniest facial expressions. … When a child identifies with such characters, their inner sense correlates with the expressions on their faces. And the little one begins to behave accordingly: it is impossible to adopt an angry expression and remain a kind soul, to mimic a senseless grimace and strive to ‘gnaw the granite of science’” (source: link txt). This excerpt emphasizes that through identification with characters, children not only copy their behavior, but also integrate these emotional patterns into their own system of self-identification. Thus, cartoons can establish persistent behavioral models that determine how children perceive themselves and interact with the world around them.

Overall, these processes indicate that children, while observing the active and demonstrative images of on-screen characters, strive to emulate them, which can lead to both positive and negative reinforcement of behavior. The adoption of these behavioral models and the corresponding identity is formed under the strong impression of the observed patterns, which later influences their attitude towards themselves and their environment.