The Nature of Childhood

What does it mean that childhood is socially constructed?

• childhood is shaped by society and culture, not just biology

• different societies have different ideas about what childhood is

What does Wagg (1992) argue about childhood?

• childhood is not universal

• children are treated differently across cultures

What are key features of the modern Western view of childhood?

• separate life stage

• golden age

• emotional and physical support

• protection

• special products and services

How are children in Western societies often viewed?

• economically dependent

• excluded from paid work

• protected by legal and social institutions

What did Firth (1970) find about obedience among the Tikopia?

• children are not expected to obey adults automatically

• obedience must be earned

How did the status of children begin to change by the 17th century?

• childhood recognised as distinct phase

• growth of schooling

• different clothing from adults

How have legal protections changed the position of children?

• child labour restrictions

• compulsory schooling

• increased protection

• economic dependence

What role did child welfare and rights play in changing childhood?

• Children Act 1989

• convention on the rights of the child

• promotion of education and healthcare

• protection

How have family and social changes affected childhood?

• falling birth rates

• lower infant mortality

• increased emotional investment

• increased financial investment

What impact did industrialisation have on childhood?

• need for education

• reduction in child labour

• longer childhood

• more secure childhood

What is meant by the globalisation of Western childhood?

• Western ideas about childhood spread through campaigns and education initiatives

• imposition of Western norms on other cultures