AMST 301L - Childhood in America

3 Credit(s) | Lecture |
Course can be counted for credit once

Description:
An interdisciplinary treatment of conceptions and practices of child nature and nurture in the United States, viewed in the context of American culture and history. The course begins with an historical overview of child life in America, with special attention to Puritan New England, nineteenth century industrialization and urbanization, and twentieth century trends. In treating contemporary childhood, the course examines mainstream patterns of the middle and working classes, both rural and urban; African-American child and family life; Hispano-American child and family life; enculturation among selected American Indian groups; the importance of gender as a variable in childhood experience; and the growing importance of formal institutions-such as schools, youth organizations, and medical institutions-as environments for young people. Children’s own cultural constructions, in the form of games and folklore, are also considered. The course concludes with an examination of selected policy issues affecting children, such as child abuse, medical intervention, day care, and the Children’s Rights Movement. AMST 301L and ANTH 301L are the same course.

Course Attribute(s):
Diversity Area: United States

Enrollment Requirements:
Prerequisite: A minimum of 30 credits or permission of instructor.

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