Parenting Trends Throughout History: We’ve always done it wrong … and also right
Mar 28, 2024
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Author Jennifer Traig discusses the evolution of parenting trends throughout history, from ancient Rome to Dr. Spock. Topics include contrasting parenting practices, historical feeding methods, and the influence of figures like Martin Luther Emmett Holt and John Bratas Watson. The podcast showcases the cyclical nature of parenting fads and emphasizes the diversity in parenting styles across different time periods.
Parenting styles have evolved through history, emphasizing varying levels of parental involvement.
Dr. Spock's practical guidance and support revolutionized parenting advice, standing the test of time.
Deep dives
Parenting Trends Throughout History
Parenting approaches have evolved over time, with varying advice and practices. Historical figures like Locke and Rousseau emphasized parents being more involved in their children's upbringing, shifting from the previous norm of outsourced childcare. The Industrial Revolution led to mothers taking on more hands-on parenting due to societal changes. This historical perspective highlights the changing dynamics of parenting roles and responsibilities.
Dr. Spock's Impact on Parenting Advice
Dr. Spock revolutionized parenting advice by offering reassurance and practical guidance to parents. His emphasis on following instincts, showing affection, and using a helpful index in his book resonated with many caregivers. Dr. Spock's sensible and supportive approach to parenting has stood the test of time and continues to be a source of comfort for parents.
Shift towards Science-based Parenting
The early 20th century witnessed a transition towards using scientific principles in parenting advice. Figures like Luther Emmett Holt and John B. Watson introduced rigid and at times controversial childcare methods based on questionable science. Dr. Spock's more sensible guidance later challenged these strict approaches, promoting a more balanced and parent-friendly approach.
Reflections on Current Parenting Practices
Current parenting practices, such as screen time management and societal pressures, may be viewed differently in the future. Concerns over unchecked screen use and potential long-term impacts on children's development draw parallels to past parenting 'missteps' like banning bananas. Recognizing the evolving nature of parenting trends is essential for navigating the complexities of modern caregiving.
As a parent, it’s extremely easy to get very focused on “doing it right.” Which means, usually, doing what is considered “right” in your particular time and cultural context. And sometimes, amid this pressure, we need a little perspective. Human history is long, and what is considered right has changed a lot.
Today on ParentData, we’re joined by author Jennifer Traig, who offers this perspective in spades. Her book “Act Natural: A Cultural History of Misadventures in Parenting” is a history of parenting (or at least child-rearing) from ancient Rome to Puritan New England to Dr. Spock. We’ve done it a lot of ways and we’re all still here…so we must be doing something right.
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