Faculty Mentor

Dr. Nancy Malcom

Location

Russell Union Room 2054

If Other was choses above, please indicate your topic area here:

Sociology of Childhood

Type of Research

Completed

Session Format

Oral Presentation

College

College of Behavioral & Social Sciences

Department

Sociology

Abstract

This research analyzes Steven Universe, a modern animated television series created by Rebecca Sugar, through a sociological lens to explore how contemporary media redefines the concept of family. The study examines how nontraditional caregiving structures and emotionally based kinship challenge the boundaries of the nuclear family model. Using the theoretical frameworks of symbolic interactionism and feminist theory, this paper interprets family as a social construction formed through love, care, and shared experience rather than biology alone. A purposive sample of fifteen episodes across seasons one, three, and five was analyzed for depictions of caregiving, gender roles, and emotional labor. Findings reveal that Steven Universe presents family as fluid and inclusive, emphasizing collective caregiving and mutual support among the Crystal Gems, Steven, and Greg. The series dismantles traditional hierarchies of gender and authority, portraying love and nurture as shared responsibilities rather than fixed parental roles. Overall, the show reflects broader cultural shifts in how family is defined, representing a vision of kinship grounded in empathy, cooperation, and the ongoing choice to care for one another.

Program Description

.

DOI

10.20429/GS4.2026.034

Start Date

4-23-2026 3:30 PM

End Date

4-23-2026 3:45 PM

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Apr 23rd, 3:30 PM Apr 23rd, 3:45 PM

Steven Universe & the Phenomenon of Family

Russell Union Room 2054

This research analyzes Steven Universe, a modern animated television series created by Rebecca Sugar, through a sociological lens to explore how contemporary media redefines the concept of family. The study examines how nontraditional caregiving structures and emotionally based kinship challenge the boundaries of the nuclear family model. Using the theoretical frameworks of symbolic interactionism and feminist theory, this paper interprets family as a social construction formed through love, care, and shared experience rather than biology alone. A purposive sample of fifteen episodes across seasons one, three, and five was analyzed for depictions of caregiving, gender roles, and emotional labor. Findings reveal that Steven Universe presents family as fluid and inclusive, emphasizing collective caregiving and mutual support among the Crystal Gems, Steven, and Greg. The series dismantles traditional hierarchies of gender and authority, portraying love and nurture as shared responsibilities rather than fixed parental roles. Overall, the show reflects broader cultural shifts in how family is defined, representing a vision of kinship grounded in empathy, cooperation, and the ongoing choice to care for one another.