The Sociology of Early Childhood

Norman Gabriel is a sociologist teaching Childhood Studies at the University of Essex. Inspired by Norbert Elias, his research interests are in relational sociology and the sociology of early childhood. With Professor Stephen Mennell he co-edited, 'Norbert Elias and Figurational Research: Processual Thinking in Sociology' (2011), a Monograph for The Sociological Review series. He is currently working on a book on Norbert Elias's political sociology (co-authored with Professor Lars Bo Kaspersen).

Introduction Historical and Sociological Approaches on Childhood A Relational Sociology of Early Childhood Growing Up Beside You - Social Habitus in Early Childhood Young Children's Play - Challenging the Adult Establishment Civilising young children - long-term parenting trends New Media Technologies and the Sexualisation of Childhood Conclusions

This book is a valuable addition to Early Childhood Studies, it plays an important part in developing our students' sociological perspectives on childhood; an important component of this multi-disciplinary degree. -- Ruby Oates A very welcome addition to the Childhood Studies literature, The Sociology of Early Childhood covers the key issues and subject areas essential for developing a critical and comprehensive knowledge of the field. Thoughtfully structured and clearly written, Gabriel provides a compelling discussion of ideas and concepts in ways accessible to an undergraduate audience. This is a 'must-have' text for all interested in understanding modern childhoods. -- Mary Jane Kehily In this book, Norman Gabriel provides an insightful, relational approach to the study of early childhood. Gabriel is both original and scholarly in the way he illuminates his points. Students of early childhood should read this book for a fuller understanding of the importance of early childhood to our contemporary society. -- Caroline Bath In this concise new volume, based on a strong philosophical and historical structure and supported by examples from contemporary research, Norman Gabriel constructs a framework for understanding the social worlds and experiences of children in early childhood. -- Noah Kenneally