Childhood Flashcards
What does the modern western notion of childhood suggest about kids?
Kids are immature and lack skills for socialization before adulthood.
Who introduced the concept of separateness in childhood?
Pilcher.
How is childhood viewed in Western cultures?
As a ‘golden age’ where children’s lives are lived in the sphere of family and education, protected from the outside.
What are the three ways children are treated differently in non-industrial societies according to Benedict?
- Take responsibility at an early age
- Less value on obedience
- Different views on sexual behavior
What example illustrates children’s early responsibilities in rural Bolivia?
Kids are expected to take responsibilities at 5.
How is obedience viewed in Tikopia culture?
Obedience to adults is not considered a right.
What is the cultural attitude towards sexual behavior among Trobriand Islanders?
There is tolerance and amused interest from adults towards sexual exploration.
According to Aries, how was childhood perceived in the Middle Ages?
Childhood did not exist; children were seen as ‘mini-adults’.
What historical changes contributed to the modern perception of childhood?
- Laws restricting child labor
- Introduction of compulsory schooling
- Child protection welfare
- Children’s rights
- Declining family size
What does Postman argue about the disappearance of childhood?
There is a trend towards adult rights for kids and the disappearance of children’s games.
What is the impact of television on childhood according to Postman?
Television blurs the distinction between adults and kids, as no skills are needed to access it.
How does Jenks view childhood in postmodernity?
Childhood is changing; kids are nurtured for adult life in stable relationships.
What does the march of progress view suggest about the position of children?
The position of children in western societies has been improving.
What do Aries and Shorter claim about the current status of children?
Kids are more valued, better cared for, protected, educated, enjoy better health, and have more rights.
What does the conflict view argue regarding the march of progress?
It is based on an idealized image and ignores inequality among children and between kids and adults.
What forms of control over children do Firestone and Holt identify?
- Neglect and abuse
- Controls over space and movement
- Controls over time
- Control over bodies
- Control over access to resources
What is age patriarchy, and how does it relate to children?
It asserts control over women and children, showing oppression through various strategies.
What critique does Pollock provide regarding Aries’ argument about childhood?
Pollock argues that childhood only started to exist for upper classes.
What is the ‘new sociology of childhood’ perspective?
It views children as active agents rather than passive objects shaped by adults.
Fill in the blank: The ‘dark side’ of family life refers to _______.
neglect and abuse.
True or False: Opie’s research on games shows evidence of a distinct childhood culture.
True.
What does Palmer claim about children in the UK?
They are experiencing a toxic childhood due to rapid change.
What is a criticism of child liberationists regarding control over children?
Some control is justified.
