1. Views on childhood
Examine different sociological views on changes in the experience of childhood in the past 50 years or so. (24 marks)

2. Approaching this question
Be mindful of how childhood has changed (and why) but more importantly explore the views about this:
The main view is that it has become more protected and a time of innocence (and should be kept so)
The other is that childhood has:
(a) become a negative experience
(b) and is disappearing

3. Postman Childhood is disappearing Childhood/adulthood not so distinct
Caused by:
Mass media
Blurring of differences due to: children dressed in sexualised way/adults dressing like kids/lack of transition to adult life

4. Children as consumers Evans & Chandler found:
Peer pressure/pester power for designer goods
Advertising now aimed at kids

5. Jenks – childhood distinct still
Loss of innocence since James Bulger murder
BUT…children still restricted by laws that control their behaviour (sex/smoking/alcohol/employment etc)

6. Theoretical Views Functionalists/New Right
Children are vulnerable and need protection
Growing up too quick
Phillips argues:
Liberal parenting = too many rights – parents unable to discipline
Peer groups = mass media taking over socialisation role (over education/parents)
Need policies to:
Protect children
Services to support/surveillance
Extend education

7. Children needing ‘protecting’
Laws
Smaller families – child centred – loving
Keep safe from harm/abuse
Evaluation
Making children rebel (Hockey and James)

8. Berry Mayall’s view – Child Liberation View
The New Right view is ‘adultist’ (see children through eyes of adults/biased) – focus on discipline and control of children
This ignores ‘THE RIGHTS OF CHILDREN’
Age Patriarchy in play which ‘oppresses’ children
Children can make rational choices and should be given more voice and freedom

9. Support from.. Donzelot ‘policing of families’
Palmer ‘Toxic Childhood’
Jenks – postmodern concern for extreme surveillance
Childhood is disappearing