Disappearance of Childhood

Why does Postman say childhood is disappearing?

Children are gaining the same rights, same clothes, and commiting the same crimes as adult

What are examples of the same clothing and crime as adults?

Crops tops, mini skirts

Murder, rape, armed robbery

This is because of the growth of…

Print culture in industrialisation

In the Middle Ages, there was no print culture but…

Simple verbal communication since everyone was illiterate but the wealthy

What did this printed world create and what is the result today?

An information hierarchy which is now collapsing, meaning children are less innocent and ignorant

What are examples of print culture and how has it evolved today?

Newspapers, journaling

Into television culture with visual media instead

What does visual media in the news mean for children today?

Easier to access from a young age

Can hide some information but can’t protect from harsh adult realities

What does Opie argue with Postman?

He overemphasises the impact of television at the expense of other factors that have influenced childhood

What are examples of children's culture that suggest it is still a separate stage?

Games, rhymes, songs

Now kidz bop