Negotiating Childhood and Neighbourhood Environments in Kunming, China: A multi-generational study

This project will examine how the ways in which children perceive, experience, and relate to their neighbourhood environments have changed over three generations in Kunming, China. This project represents part of a larger study: the Negotiating Childhood Around the Pacific-Rim Project. The researchers will recruit intergenerational families to participate in the research together, with at least one participant from each of the three generations (grandparents, parents, children). Each participant will complete a semi-structured interview based on a standardized questionnaire to start the research as well as drawing a mental map of important places from their childhood. Following these activities, each participant will take six photographs to illustrate important places, both positive and negative, from their childhood. Finally, each family will be given a family photobook with each participants’ photographs (as well as a short description) at a final family focus group event, which will provide a platform for a comprehensive summary of the research and intergenerational dialogue on issues of how childhood has changed. This research aims to expand understanding of changes in childhood experiences in China over three generations.

Faculty Supervisor:

Sarah Turner

Student:

Partner:

Yunnan Normal University

Discipline:

Sociology

Sector:

Public Service, Policy, and Governance; Social Innovation; Other

University:

McGill University

Program: