Topic 2 - Childhood

Question 1

Changes to childhood over time - Aries [2]

Answer 1

• In the middle ages: Children seen as mini adults considered economic assets
• Modern notion of childhood began to emerge -> profound distinction betw. children & adults in terms of clothing, rights & responsibilities.

Question 2

Changes to childhood over time - Postman [3]

Answer 2

• In modern society, childhood = ‘disappearing’
• Printed word created a hierarchy betw. adults, who can read, and children -> gave adults power to keep ‘adult matters’ private
• TV blurs distinction & information hierarchy; TV doesn’t require special skills to access it.

Question 3

Changes to childhood over time - Shorter [1]

Answer 3

In the middle ages- high death rate of children encouraged neglect e.g. parents referred to children as ‘it’.

Question 4

Has childhood improved? - March of Progress view [2]

Answer 4

• Childhood has improved significantly -> children now perceived as vulnerable
• Introduction of laws that improve the experience of childhood (Eg. laws banning child labour).

Question 5

Has childhood improved? - Palmer [2]

Answer 5

• ‘Toxic childhood’ has emerged due to rapid technological & cultural changes -> damaged intellectual development.
• This is the result of intensive marketing to children, parents working long hours & testing in education

Question 6

Has childhood improved? - Gittens [1]

Answer 6

• There is an ‘age patriarchy’ of adult domination & child dependency. This may assert itself in the form of violence against children.