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In prehistoric times, parents were known to abandon their children through infanticide. This practice was often used as a means of population control and regulation. Additionally, certain cultural beliefs and superstitions attributed negative magical effects or evil spells to the birth of children with disabilities, leading to their killing in some communities. -
Children were seen as property and could be killed or abandoned at will. Infanticide was common, especially for girls. -
Children were seen as miniature adults and were expected to work and contribute to the family's income. Corporal punishment was common. -
The concept of childhood as a separate stage of life began to emerge. Children were seen as innocent and in need of protection. -
The Puritans emphasized the importance of child-rearing and education. The idea of the "childhood garden" emerged, where children were seen as delicate flowers that needed to be nurtured. -
The Enlightenment brought new ideas about childhood, including the idea that children were naturally good and should be allowed to develop at their own pace. Rousseau's "Emile" emphasized the importance of education and the need to protect children from the corrupting influences of society. -
The Industrial Revolution led to child labor and exploitation. Child abuse and neglect were common. The child-saving movement emerged, which aimed to protect children from abuse and neglect and provide them with education and opportunities. -
The concept of childhood continued to evolve, with an increased emphasis on children's rights and protection. Child labor laws were passed, and child abuse and neglect became criminal offenses. The field of child psychology emerged, which focused on understanding children's development and needs.