'new sociology of childhood'

• danger of seeing childhood as socially constructed

  -we see children merely as passive objects

  -with no part in making their own childhoods

  -risks seeing children from 'adultist' viewpoint > MAYALL
• 'adultist' viewpoint


  -may see children as mere 'socialisation projects' for adults to mould, shape & develop

  -no interest in themselves, only for what they'll become in future

  -different approach = 'new sociology of childhood'
• 'new sociology of childhood' viewpoint


  -doesn't see children as simply 'adults in the making'

  -sees children as active agents who play major part in creating own childhoods