The Sociology of Childhood

The Sociology of Childhood, 5th Edition, by William A. Corsaro is a textbook in the Sociology for a New Century Series that examines children and childhood from a sociological perspective. Corsaro contrasts traditional socialization frameworks with an interpretive perspective that views children as active participants in society.

The volume explores social theories of childhood, historical and cultural frameworks of family life, children's peer cultures, and social problems affecting young people. It traces relationships with peers and adults from preschool through preadolescence, examining how children navigate both daily interactions and broader structural conditions.

To connect theoretical concepts with lived experiences, the textbook includes concrete examples of children's play and behavior alongside photographs, charts, a glossary, references, and an index.