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Sociology of Childhood

In this module, you’ll get to know the key sociological approaches to understanding childhood and young children.  As well as examining different models of childhood, you’ll look at the implications of those models – and you’ll also gain a deeper appreciation of the ways society intervenes in children’s lives. Taking into account the perspectives of children and adults, you’ll look at childhood both nationally and internationally.

What does the module cover?

Gain an understanding of the sociology of childhood – how and why it has emerged and the key issues that surround the subject.  You’ll examine the social economies of childhood, and become aware of how class, gender and race are used to understand the experiences of children.  You’ll explore definitions of culture and explain how its representation can influence social relationships and provide insight into beliefs about children and attitudes toward them.  You’ll also have the opportunity to review the experiences of children in different social contexts drawing on critical thought, and articulate how the role of key institutions in children’s lives, the politics of childhood and the changing relationship between the state and children affects work with children.

More Information

Module Code:

ED1010

Key topics

  • Childhood as a social construct
  • Using theories of childhood to understand children
  • Sociology and its uses
  • Childhood in different social settings and cultures; local, national and international.
  • Influence of media, religion, tradition, technology & consumerism on ideas about childhood and attitudes to children
  • Researching children
  • The politics of childhood
  • Children's rights and responsibilities - introduction to ethical and legal frameworks
  • Professional interventions in children’s lives by the state, voluntary & private sectors

Pre-requisites

None

Number of credits & study time

20 credits / 200 hours

Assessment

In this module you’ll need to complete a number of formative assessments as part of your coursework that you forward to your academic tutor for grading and comments.  You'll also need to complete two summative assessments counting towards your final grade:

  • Open Book Exam (1 hour)  30%
  • Essay (2500-3000 words)  70%