Historical Changes in Childhood

This page delves into the historical differences in childhood sociology, tracing how the concept and experience of childhood have evolved over time, particularly in Western societies.

Highlight: Ariès (1960) argued that the concept of childhood as we understand it today did not exist in the Middle Ages.

In medieval times, children were often viewed as miniature adults:

• They entered the workforce at an early age
• They were subject to the same laws and punishments as adults
• Their needs were not considered distinct from those of adults

Example: Shorter (1975) noted that high infant mortality rates in the past led to a degree of emotional detachment from young children, such as the practice of naming a baby after a deceased sibling.

The emergence of the modern concept of childhood:

1. Ariès identifies several developments after the 13th century that contributed to the modern understanding of childhood:
   • Establishment of schools specifically for young people
   • Distinction in clothing between children and adults
   • Publication of child-rearing books in the 18th century
   • Rise of child-centered families

Vocabulary: The "cult of childhood" refers to the increasing focus on and idealization of childhood as a distinct and special life stage.

2. Pollock (1983) critiques Ariès' view, arguing that while the Middle Ages had a different concept of childhood, it did exist.

Quote: "Ariès' theory is still valuable in showing how ideas about children and their social status have changed cross-temporally."

The page concludes by exploring the factors that contributed to changes in children's position during the 20th century, including:

• Laws restricting child labor
• Introduction of compulsory schooling
• Child protection and welfare legislation
• Growing emphasis on children's rights
• Smaller family sizes and lower infant mortality rates
• Emergence of child development theories
• Implementation of age-specific laws for children

Highlight: These changes reflect the shift from viewing children as economic assets to seeing them as individuals requiring protection and investment, a key aspect of childhood sociology A level studies.

Childhood: A Social Construct

The concept of childhood is not universal but varies across cultures and historical periods. This page introduces the idea of childhood as a social construct, emphasizing how perceptions of children and their roles have changed over time.

Definition: Childhood as a social construct refers to the idea that our understanding of childhood is shaped by societal norms, cultural beliefs, and historical context rather than being a fixed, biological reality.

In modern Western societies, childhood is viewed as a special, separate stage of life. Children are seen as fundamentally different from adults, requiring protection and a period of socialization before taking on adult responsibilities.

Highlight: Pilcher (1995) identifies separateness as a key feature of modern childhood, with distinct laws, products, and services catering specifically to children.

The concept of childhood as a "golden age" of innocence and happiness is prevalent in Western cultures. This view emphasizes the protection of children from adult concerns and the importance of leisure and play in their lives.

Example: The creation of toys, children's food products, and dedicated play areas illustrates the separation of childhood from adulthood in Western societies.

However, this perception of childhood is not universal. Wagg (1992) argues that the clear distinction between children and adults is not found in all societies, highlighting the socially constructed nature of childhood.

Quote: "Childhood is socially constructed so there's no universal definition of it." - Wagg (1992)