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In:Expanding Horizons in Systemic Functional Linguistics: Interdisciplinary applications, multimodality, and theoretical advances
Edited by Claudia E. Stoian and Christian M.I.M. Matthiessen
[Studies in Functional and Structural Linguistics 80] 2027
► pp. 104–123

Chapter 5
Intersectional representations of parenthood in picture books about forced displacement

A systemic functional multimodal discourse analysis

ORCiD logo with link | University of Salamanca
ORCiD logo with link | University of Salamanca
This content is being prepared for publication; it may be subject to changes.
Abstract
This chapter applies systemic functional multimodal discourse analysis to refugee-themed picture books to examine how parenthood is constructed intersectionally across verbal and visual modes. The findings reveal strongly gendered patterns that mirror those identified in migration studies: mothers appear as primary caregivers, while fathers are linked to provision and protection. These representations reflect broader cultural narratives of migrant family life and emotional resilience. By linking literary portrayals to real-world experiences, the chapter demonstrates the value of SFL in bridging discourse analysis, multimodal literature, and interdisciplinary research on forced displacement.
Article outline
  • 1.Introduction
  • 2.Parenthood and migration
  • 3.Migration-themed picture books: Exploring child and family representations
  • 4.Theoretical framework
    • 4.1Systemic functional linguistics and multimodal picture book analysis
    • 4.2Methodology
      • 4.2.1Sampling parenthood in picture books: Refugee vs economic migrants
      • 4.2.2Transitivity roles of parenting
  • 5.Findings
    • 5.1Verbal construals of parenthood
      • 5.1.1Parents as actors
      • 5.1.2Parents as sayers
      • 5.1.3Parenthood in the little refugee
    • 5.2Visual representations of parenthood
      • 5.2.1Parents as actors
      • 5.2.2(In)visible parents
  • 6.Discussion and conclusion
  • Notes
  • Picture books analysed
  • References
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