06 February 2008

Toilet training, first place to learn self-control

Anna Christie has produced a preliminary report on the increasing age of infant toilet training in Western countries over the last few decades. This is a major change in early learning of self-control, but there appear to be no (repeat, absolutely none) studies on the effect of this huge societal experiment. Anyone with information should post a comment.

3 Comments:

Blogger Alison said...

this is such an interesting topic - i have two young children so my experience with this is pretty fresh. my thoughts relate to medical and psychological discourse visa vis theory about child development and health; and more so the influence of corporate entities who use licensed images to keep children in nappies (pullups) for as long as possible. then there is the time issue associated with toilet training when two parents work. whats the possible impact of later toilet training with regard to the individuals development of self control?

4:34 PM  
Blogger Anna Christie said...

Alison, you have obviously been thinking about a range of issues associated with this much ignored subject. In answer to your question about the possible impacts of later toilet training, the health impacts are uncertain, but there are indications of dysfunctional bladder, increased constipation, plus some behaviours such as "hiding while stooling" which could be psychological in nature. As for the impact on self-control, as Jim Franklin points out in his intro, there is absolutely nothing on this.Please follow the link to my paper "Abandonment of potty training in Australian society: environmental, social and health issues" from the The Restraint Project website, and podcast the Counterpoint interview Mon 15th September on the subject.

1:06 PM  
Blogger Enough said...

Hi Anna

I am interested in getting in touch with you to discuss your research further. I'm writing an article on nappies and would welcome the opportunity to speak with you. If you are interested please contact me via email info@familyconnect.com.au. Thanks

3:25 PM  

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