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Assess The View That The Modern Family Has Become More Child Centred Essay

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Assess The View That The Modern Family Has Become More Child Centred Essay
Assess the view that the modern family has become more child centred.

Sociologists have different opinions on the definition of childhood. Some believe that childhood is a social construction, rather than a natural state. Today's society has become more child-centred than what it was in the past. Sociologists with the 'March of Progress' view argue that children are now the focal point of the family as children now get to make more decisions, also parents invest more emotionally and financially in their children as they have high aspirations for them. However, those who argue childhood has not improved take the 'conflict view'. These include the two conflict theories; Marxism and Feminism. Marxists argue there is conflict between the bourgeoisie and the proletariat. Feminism argues there is conflict between men and women, which is known as patriarchy. Family's that are child-centred treat their children as a priority, this has become more prominent in modern society due to changes in laws and stigma.

Sue Palmer (2006) says there is a 'toxic childhood' because technology has damaged children's physical, emotional and intellectual development. Technology means children are exposed to 'adult' content, which creates …show more content…
Children have different clothes, products and services for example; toys, books, entertainment and play areas. Childhood is still considered as a 'golden age' of happiness and innocence in which they lead lives of leisure and rely on their parents for economic support. However, Wagg criticises Pilcher's theory as he states “Childhood is not a universal experience” as different cultures have different 'childhoods' and do not experience childhood the same. An example of this is between 2001 and 2004 child soldiers were involved in active conflict in 27 countries around the
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