The Representations of Childhood and the Self-Image of Adults in Modernity: The Image of the Child as “Other” or as Part of the Narrative of Life

Abstract

In this article, the meaningful relationships between the social construct of childhood and the self-image of adults in modernity are explored. The image of the child is approached as a discourse that reflects and exercises both exclusive and inclusive powers. First of all, the relationship between the discourse on immaturity and maturity is explored as a mutually “othering” binary opposition. In this discourse, the child is defined as both “not yet” mature, as well as representing what adults have “left behind”. It therefore forms a depository image for both negative characteristics— reinforcing a positive image of maturity and mature traits—as well as positive characteristics projected on childhood, in this way idealizing childhood in opposition to adulthood and supporting a positive image of “human nature”. Modern developments are taken into account in considering whether this dichotomous image is applicable to the image of the child in modernity. The second relationship that will be explored is the image of the child as part of the modern narrative of life (Giddens, 1991). The image of the child is defined in terms of both its opposition and similarity to the image of the adult. Hence, in modernity, it can be constructed so as to ensure a narrated line of continuity throughout the life span.