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Addressing gender violence among children in the early years of schooling: insights from teachers in a South African primary school.

Authors :
Mayeza, Emmanuel
Bhana, Deevia
Source :
International Studies in Sociology of Education. Dec2017, Vol. 26 Issue 4, p408-425. 18p.
Publication Year :
2017

Abstract

This paper explores how teachers in a poor township primary school in South Africa construct meaning regarding gender violence among children, and how they talk about addressing that violence. The paper argues that major influences on the endemic violence include complex societal structures that are inscribed with cultures of violent masculinities, extreme socio-economic conditions and gender inequality. It shows how primary school teachers recognise violent masculinities and gender power imbalances but simultaneously uphold the notion of children’s innocence as a rationale for refuting the primary school as a site of violence. The paper explores contradictions embedded in some of the solutions which the teachers suggest as a way of addressing violence. For example, while they highlight the importance of teaching peace, respect and equality, they also advocate the use of corporal punishment as an effective means of dealing with violent conduct among school children. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
09620214
Volume :
26
Issue :
4
Database :
Academic Search Index
Journal :
International Studies in Sociology of Education
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
127011212
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1080/09620214.2017.1319288