Title: History, Parenting and the Vulnerable Child

Abstract: This talk will focus on changes in American parenting as they unfolded in two phases: the middle decades of the 20th century and the past two decades. The goal is to use this kind of history to elucidate current issues, while exploring the nature and reasons for recent developments against a backdrop of earlier redefinitions of childhood resiliency. School and work will provide prime examples, along with larger assumptions about children and their environment. Discussion will also explore the uses of historical analysis in suggesting ways to relieve some of the drawbacks of contemporary styles.