In which century did the concept of a separate status of childhood begin to develop?

The concept of a separate status of childhood began to develop in the seventeenth century, marking a significant shift in societal views on children and their role in society. This period saw the emergence of ideas that children were not simply smaller adults but rather individuals with their own unique needs, experiences, and stages of development. Thinkers like John Locke and Jean-Jacques Rousseau contributed to this transformation by emphasizing the importance of education and nurturing during childhood, which contributed to the perception of children as distinct from adults.

This growing recognition of childhood as a separate, protected stage of life laid the groundwork for modern concepts of childhood development and juvenile justice, highlighting the need for safeguarding children and understanding their psychological and emotional needs. As a result, discussions about children's rights and the importance of supporting their development became more prominent, setting the stage for future reforms in education and child welfare.