Childhood Flashcards
Childhood: In a nutshell
Some sociologists argue that the position of children in society has significantly improved due to the introduction of laws that protect children’s rights. However, some sociologists believe childhood has turned ‘toxic’ due to rapid technological and cultural change.
What’s Aries view on Changes to Childhood overtime?
In the middle ages, the idea of childhood did not exist. Children had the same responsibilities, rights and skills as adults - in turn, they were considered economic assets. However, as the modern notion of childhood began to emerge, there became a profound distinction between children in adults in terms of clothing, rights and responsibilities.
What’s Postman’s view on Changes to Childhood overtime?
In modern society, childhood is ‘disappearing’. Children and adults have some of the same rights, children’s unsupervised traditional games are disappearing, children are committing ‘adult’ crimes. The printed word created a hierarchy between adults, who can read, and children, who cannot - this gave adults the power to keep ‘adult matters’ private. However, TV blurs the distinction and information hierarchy; TV does not require special skills to access it.
What’s Shorters view on Changes to Childhood overtime?
In the middle ages, the high death rate of children encouraged indifference and neglect. For example, parents referred to their child as “it” or gave the child a name of a recently dead sibling.
What’s the March Of Progress view on whether childhood has improved?
Childhood has improved significantly, due to how children are now perceived as vulnerable people who need taking care of. In addition, there has been an introduction of laws which improve the experience of childhood (Eg. laws banning child labour).
What’s Palmers view on whether childhood has improved?
‘Toxic childhood’ - Rapid technological and cultural changes have damaged children’s physical, emotional and intellectual development. This is the result of intensive marketing to children, parents working long hours and testing in education.
What’s Gittins view on whether childhood has improved?
‘Age patriarchy’ - There is an age patriarchy of adult domination and child dependency. This may assert itself in the form of violence against children.
