Abstract

LIMA, Mayara Barbosa Sindeaux et al. Domestic activity and socialization: the viewpoint of adolescents from different socioeconomic classes. Rev. bras. crescimento desenvolv. hum. [online]. 2008, vol.18, n.2, pp. 189-200. ISSN 0104-1282.

Family routine plays a fundamental role in socialization, and is an important feature of intimate family culture. Among the routine activities, the study of domestic tasks (DT) has been identified as a key strategy for investigating issues dealing with human development. Thus, meanings associated with DT may be used as indicators of certain socialization processes. The aim of this investigation was to identify and discuss the viewpoints of adolescents from different socioeconomic classes regarding DT. Two groups of adolescents aged between 12 and 15 years participated in the study: 10 adolescents (five of each sex) from lower-income families (LIF), and 11 (3 girls and 8 boys) from middle-income families (MIF). A socio-demographic questionnaire and a semi-structured interview were used, and data were collected through two Focal Groups. Both groups yielded similar themes, such as gender differentiation, domestic sharing, and skill acquisition. However, the DT meanings constructed by LIF adolescents differed from those constructed by MIF adolescents, because those from the former group tended to consider participation in the domestic task as important for family survival and developmental opportunities.

Keywords : Socialization; Adolescents; Domestic tasks; Socioeconomic class.

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