The construction of care

Social constructionist theory argues that what is seen to be appropriate behaviour towards children is constructed and can vary through time and in different cultural contexts.


Construction of the child - Appropriate care and parenting

Child as mini adult - Child needs no special treatment, can work
and take part in ‘adult’ activities

Child as in a state of ‘original sin’ - The Victorian notion of ‘spare the rod and
spoil the child’ required adults to provide
harsh physical punishment to prevent the
child from developing inappropriately

Child as dependent, as a learner - Child needs developmentally rich
environment to learn in, supported by
‘teachers’ (adults or older children/young
people) to support learning

Child as innocent and vulnerable - Child needs protection from hazards in the
world, requires adult intervention and
monitoring




Models of parenting

Researchers and academics have proposed various models of parenting. Commonly, parenting styles are broken down into four categories:

Permissive - Few rules are given to children, those that are
given are inconsistently applied. Parents do not
monitor, challenge or praise behaviour.

Authoritarian - A hierarchical model of parenting with parents in
control of their child’s life. A focus on correcting
bad behaviour, strict rules and punishment
consistently applied.

Authoritative - Clear and consistent expectations of children.
Expectations are explained and negotiated with
children.

Neglectful or dismissive - Exert little care or consideration for their
children


Research based in the UK and North America suggests that an authoritative parenting style provides children and young people with the most effective support and care. However, there are variations in what is considered to be an appropriate parenting style. For example, in his work Martin Woodhead (1999) cites an example of a Thai textbook on parenting, which is concerned about the effect on families if parenting is not authoritarian in style.
Parenting style and behaviour is also a product of the material resources available to a family. For example, Walkerdine and Lucey (1991) suggested that the ideal of ‘sensitive mothering’, whereby a mother is attuned to her baby’s needs and responsive to them, is difficult to sustain, particularly in situations where families have little support and a baby has been crying constantly for hours at a time.