3. Childhood

Summary

Childhood is viewed differently across societies and time periods.

Modern childhood:

• Longer education.

• Greater protection.

• Child-centred families.

• More laws protecting children.

Some sociologists argue childhood is disappearing.

1. Name 3 sociologists that talk about childhood?

2. What does Aries say?

1. Aries,Pilcher,Postman

2. Childhood is socially constructed

• Medieval children treated as mini-adults.

• Modern childhood emerged gradually.

• Childhood differs historically.

What does Pilcher say?

Distinct life stage

• Childhood clearly separated from adulthood.

• Society protects children.

• Children have special status.

What does Postman say?

Media impact

• Television blurs adult-child boundaries.

• Children gain adult knowledge earlier.

• Childhood is becoming less distinct.

Palmer

Childhood has become damaging to the physical and,psychological and emotional health of young people. Evidenced by:

• a unicef survey in 2013 ranked the uk 16th out of 29 for children’s well being.