Final answer:
Children's social behavior is influenced by factors like the historical period, social class, gender socialization, observational learning from parents and societal models, media content, and the interaction between biological predispositions and social environment.
Step-by-step explanation:
Factors Influencing the Judgment of Children's Social Behavior
We judge children's social behavior based on various sociocultural factors such as the historical period they live in, which often dictates societal expectations and norms. For instance, disciplinary actions that were once considered acceptable in the past may now be viewed as unacceptable or even abusive. Another significant factor is social class, as research suggests that poor and wealthy families tend to raise their children differently, with the former emphasizing obedience and conformity while the latter prioritize judgment and creativity (National Opinion Research Center 2008). These differences in upbringing are not only reflective of but also reinforce the existing class systems.
Gender socialization is also a pivotal aspect, where society's focus on girls' physical appearance from a young age can lead to issues with body image, as indicated by Lisa Bloom's observations about the early concerns of girls about being overweight. Moreover, children's behaviors are molded by what they observe in their environment, as Albert Bandura's social learning theory highlights. Positive models of behavior, such as parental actions, public figures, and peer groups, can significantly influence children in both prosocial and antisocial ways, shaping their values and conduct. Media content, such as television, also plays a role in affecting children's behavior. Lastly, a child's development can be shaped by their biological predispositions interacting with their social environment, influencing how genetic and cognitive traits manifest.