Globalisation of Western Childhood and the Emergence of the Modern Notion of Childhood

Western norms

Standards and expectations about childhood imposed by Western humanitarian and welfare agencies globally. Examples include promoting health care access for children, ensuring their education, and protecting their rights through initiatives such as vaccinations and school enrollment programs.

Nuclear family

A family unit consisting of two parents and their children. This model is often contrasted with extended families which include other relatives such as grandparents, aunts, and uncles.

Childhood as a separate life stage

The concept that childhood is distinct from adulthood, characterized by innocence, dependence, and vulnerability. Examples include tailored educational curriculums and child-specific legal protections.

Campaigns against child labour

Efforts to eliminate the practice of employing children in work that ‘deprives’ them of their childhood, in the Western sense of the word. Examples include advocacy movements like the International Labour Organization's campaigns to raise the minimum working age.

‘Street children’

Children who live and work on the streets, often exposed to various perils including violence and exploitation. They may engage in begging or work in informal sectors.

Ariès' study of childhood

Research indicating that in the Middle Ages, children entered the workforce shortly after weaning without differentiation from adults. This suggests a historical lack of recognition of childhood as a unique phase of development.

Brugel the Younger

Artist whose paintings illustrate the lack of differentiation between children and adults in historical contexts, depicting children's roles as laborers and participants in adult activities.

Infant Mortality Rate (IMR)

The frequency of infant deaths in a given population, which historically influenced parental attitudes towards children. For example, high IMR in the past led to more pragmatic views of child-rearing.

Pollock's Criticism

Argument against Ariès that suggests a different notion of childhood existed rather than its absence, indicating that there were variants in child-rearing practices based on social status and history.

The modern cult of childhood

The emergence of the idea that childhood is a special period requiring protection and nurturing. Examples include the creation of children's literature and media that celebrate childhood.

Children’s rights and welfare

Legal and social frameworks established to protect children and enhance their well-being. One significant example is the establishment of child protective services.

Children Act (1989)

Legislation in the UK that reinforced the legal protection of children's rights, prioritizing their welfare in family law cases.

UN Convention on the Rights of the Child

An international agreement recognizing the rights of children, signed by 196 countries as of 2022. It includes provisions for health care, education, and the right to play.

Jenks' view on childhood in post-modernity

The belief that childhood is evolving rather than disappearing, adapting to changes in society, evidenced by the increasing role of technology in children's lives.

Child-centred nature of adult life

An approach to parenting and social policy that prioritizes the needs and rights of children. Examples include family-friendly workplace policies and educational reforms.

Compulsory schooling (1800)

Legislation requiring that all children attend school, limiting their ability to work. This law marked a significant shift in society’s view of children as primarily learners.

Prevention of Cruelty to Children Act (1889)

Legislation aimed at protecting children from abuse and neglect, serving as a foundational element in child protection law.

Child labour laws

Regulations prohibiting children from engaging in work that is harmful to their development. An example is the Fair Labor Standards Act in the United States, which set minimum ages for certain types of employment.

Post-modern life and childhood

The context in which childhood is viewed as needing protection from the uncertainties of contemporary society, reflecting concerns over commercial pressures and media influence on children.

Issues with using paintings and diaries in childhood studies (Ariès)

Using paintings and diaries as evidence in studies of childhood can be problematic due to their subjective interpretations, potential biases of the creators, and the lack of comprehensive representation of children's experiences across different social classes and historical contexts.

Criticisms of Jenks' view on childhood in post-modernity

Critiques suggest that Jenks overstates the complexities of childhood, neglecting the persistent inequalities faced by children, and that his view may overlook the realities of children's lives in less affluent societies. His studies were also conducted on a very small scale and therefore are not representative of every child, as he claims they are.

Reasons for the emergence of the modern cult of childhood

The rise of a belief system that prioritizes the unique needs and rights of children, influenced by social changes such as universal schooling, religious attitudes, and evolving family structures.

Impact of schooling on childhood perception

The establishment of compulsory education underscored childhood as a distinct life stage, separating children from adult responsibilities and promoting an emphasis on learning.

Role of the church in childhood development

Religious institutions contributed to the concept of childhood as a period for moral guidance and spiritual development, fostering a view that children deserve protection and nurturing.

Distinctions between children and adults

As societies evolved, clear distinctions were made regarding the roles, responsibilities, and rights of children compared to adults, leading to specific protections and emphasis on childhood experiences. Clothing was also differentiated.

Advancements in child psychology

The development of child psychology and educational theories in the 19th and 20th centuries promoted the idea that childhood is a crucial period for mental and emotional development.

Cultural shifts towards childhood

The emergence of children's literature, media, and activities tailored specifically for children is a reflection of changing attitudes that celebrate and prioritize childhood.