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What Is Social Constructionism?

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What Is Social Constructionism?
Social constructionism is a theoretical perspective looking at how social reality, knowledge and culture is 'constructed' over language (the medium where we express thoughts and feelings) as well as discourse (what is said or written). Social constructionism gives us a theoretical tool enabling us to look at concepts such as 'childhood' and at how these concepts inform thinking, shapes our institutions as well as informing policy and practice. K218, Learning Guide 4, Section 4.3) O’Dell et al, 2011, p. 4 cites in that two theories are drawled upon: social constructionism and social ecological theory. It is debated that these theories helps us to see the world a little better. The Social constructionist theory argues that knowledge and culture …show more content…
Also, there are different constructions of childhood over time/history as well as in locations/places, but what makes construction work is discourse which is the story, the dialogue and in some cases the media. Then, one of the dominant constructions of children and young people today is that they are seen as apprentices. (K218, Learning Guide 4, Section 4.4) cites that one of the dominant social constructions of childhood is seen as a time of apprenticeship when children and young people are socialised and educated and when children are prepared for adulthood. (Guardian, 2013) shows an image of children in a school environment. Moreover the children in the school are dressed in school uniform, a place where they go to learn and start their transition from childhood to adulthood. Thus they are preparing for adulthood through learning how to socialise as well as receiving an education that will enable them become employable as …show more content…
However, it can change. (Learning guide 4, Section 4.3) talks about the present-day opinions of children taken from the YouGov survey. The YouGov data with association with Barnardo's demonstrates a view of children as being out of control as well as being problematic. Moreover, results from the YouGov/Barnardo’s data exposes an intricate picture of adults’ opinions of children and young people where there is worry by some that children are seen as out of control. Yet, the opinions are shared between individuals who look at children and/or young people as an intimidation and unsafe, and along with individuals who disagree intensely with such idea. Although, the view of children as well as young people as being dangerous and/or out of control is grounded on strong evidence in the British media, the view of children and/or young people as being in need of help and protection is also a very dominant reality in the present day. In sum, children, young people as well as parents thoughts at different instances in time can get a taken for granted status. Plus this is reinforced by the eras legislation and policy, dominating cultural values and societal expectations of men and/or women and children and/or adults. As a result, these issues disturb the environment in which work with children as well as young people

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