Not so 'new'? Looking Critically at Childhood Studies

Citation

Tisdall EKM & Punch S (2012) Not so 'new'? Looking Critically at Childhood Studies. Children's Geographies, 10 (3), pp. 249-264. https://doi.org/10.1080/14733285.2012.693376

Abstract
The 'new' sociology of childhood emerged over twenty years ago, arguing for the social construction of childhood to be acknowledged and for the recognition of children and young people's agency and rights. Other disciplines joined this growing academic area, from children's geographies to law, so that the phrase 'childhood studies' has become a popular label. Policy and practice both influenced, and were influenced by, childhood studies, particularly in relation to promoting children's rights. This paper provides an insider's critique of the current state of childhood studies, with attention to theoretical challenges and its applicability across Majority and Minority Worlds. From a childhood studies' perspective, the paper suggests the potential of notions of relations, relationships and reciprocity.

Keywords
children; childhood; children's relationships; children's agency; children social actors; majority world; childhood studies; children's rights

Notes
Funded by ESRC (RES-451–26-0685)

Journal
Children's Geographies: Volume 10, Issue 3

People

Professor Samantha Punch

Professor, Sociology, Social Policy & Criminology