The Normative Pattern of ‘Good Childhood’ and Intergenerational Relations

More than other life phases, childhood is closely surrounded by rules and regulations, monitored by experts, channeled by welfare state regulations, and tightly structured in terms of time and space; all of this is supposed to ensure a ‘good childhood’. The chapter provides insight into the history of the normative pattern of 'good childhood', which is closely linked to the European bourgeoisie and its classist aspirations. It points out the fundamental inequality inherent in this demanding pattern, which is its constitutive element. It will then explore the question of what the claim to spread this pattern globally means. While it is undeniable that the international community must focus its attention on the world’s children, the rigid pattern of ‘good childhood’ brings new disadvantages. This pattern is at odds with the intergenerational relations as they apply in large parts of the world and regulate social life. The contribution is therefore intended as an impetus to rethink the childhood pattern as we take it for granted and not to further intensify it through the devaluation of alternative patterns.