Work

Body Work

Year: 2007

Type: article

Abstract: This article focuses on a neglected topic in the historical sociology of childhood, namely health education, and explores a neglected theme, namely the gendered character of (re)constructions of childhood. Drawing on primary sources, the article argues that while health education for children played an important role in a broader set of British national, political strategies to ensure the health and fitness of `the Nation' during the 20th century, it was girls who were the primary targets and recipients. Gender was thus central to the `body work' in childhood that the official publications on health education sought to promote.

Source: Childhood

DOI: 10.1177/0907568207078328

Author: Jane Pilcher

Institution: University of Leicester

Language: English

Topic: Historical Studies on Reproduction, Gender, Health, and Societal Changes

Subfield: History

Field: Arts and Humanities

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Gender equality, Good health and well-being, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: green

Funder: Wellcome Trust