Creativity Development Among Six-Year-Old Children: A Gender-Based Analysis

Abstract

This study examined the level of creativity development among six-year-old children and investigated whether significant gender differences existed in creativity achievement. A quantitative survey design was employed, involving 98 preschool and kindergarten children in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, selected through random sampling. The Torrance Tests of Creative Thinking (TTCT) was used as the research instrument to assess four dimensions of creativity: fluency, flexibility, originality, and elaboration. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and an independent samples t-test through SPSS software. The findings revealed that boys demonstrated a moderate level of creativity (M = 10.90, SD = 4.779), while girls demonstrated a good level of creativity (M = 11.79, SD = 5.026). Overall, the participants showed a moderate-to-good level of creativity development. However, the independent samples t-test indicated no statistically significant difference in creativity scores between boys and girls (p = 0.103). The findings suggest that gender does not significantly influence creativity development among six-year-old children. Instead, creativity may be shaped more strongly by environmental, instructional, and sociocultural factors. The study highlights the importance of providing supportive, play-based, and inclusive learning environments that encourage creativity among all children regardless of gender.