Last Updated on August 10, 2025 by Karl Thompson
Childhood is a central topic in the A-level Sociology Families and Households module. Sociologists explore how childhood is socially constructed, how it has changed over time, and the debates surrounding its future. This hub brings together key posts on the sociology of childhood, each summarised with quick links for deeper reading. For more on this topic, visit the main Families and Households revision page.
The Social Construction of Childhood
This post explains how childhood is shaped by cultural norms, historical context, and societal expectations rather than just biology. It draws on cross-cultural and historical examples to show that what counts as ‘childhood’ varies widely. Read more about the social construction of childhood here.
Changes in Childhood Since Victorian Times
Compares Victorian childhood—marked by child labour and limited rights—with today’s protected, education-focused upbringing. It considers welfare reforms, education policy, and shifting attitudes. Learn more about how childhood has changed since Victorian times.
Toxic Childhood
Summarises Sue Palmer’s argument that rapid technological change, consumerism, and a fast-paced culture are damaging children’s physical, emotional, and social development. Explore the evidence for the toxic childhood thesis here.
Paranoid Parenting
Outlines Frank Furedi’s view that modern parenting is dominated by fear, leading to over-protection and limiting children’s independence. See the full discussion on paranoid parenting here.
Are Children Today Too Controlled?
Examines the concept of ‘age patriarchy’, looking at how adult control restricts children’s freedom in terms of time, space, and decision-making. Read more on whether children today are too controlled.
Is Childhood Disappearing?
Explores Neil Postman’s theory that media erodes the boundaries between childhood and adulthood, alongside other views that childhood is actually becoming more protected. Learn more about the disappearance of childhood debate here.
Assess the View that the Family has Become More Child Centred (20)
This is a model answer to a possible 20 mark essay which could come up in the families and households section of A Level Sociology Paper 2. It uses the PEEC essay structure. .Read the full essay on child-centredness in the family here.
Other topics within A Level sociology families and households
The study of childhood is just one part of the broader A-Level Sociology Families and Households topic. To revise the whole module, you’ll need to understand key perspectives on the family. You must also grasp changing patterns in marriage, cohabitation, and divorce. It’s important to study demographic trends and the role of family policy. There are also debates about the extent of family diversity and how social class, gender, and ethnicity influence family life. For clear summaries, topic overviews, and links to all key content areas, visit my Families and Households main revision page.