A case study on the idealization and representation of the family in schools

Abstract

The diversity of family models is one of the factors shaping our current society. This situation has led to the rupture of the traditional model of family hegemony. These changes have to be understood by schools, and this new family realm has to be included in their educational work. In this article, we present a study which, from a qualitative perspective based on a case study, analyzes linked images to family in textbooks, on posters and murals; in the language used in communications and notes addressed to families; and finally, in the concepts of family that exist among the members of the educational community. The results indicate that one sector of the educational community shares a family concept based on heteronormativity and consanguinity, and that the materials and documents analyzed show a biased picture of the family.