The Cultural Lens of Childhood

This study explores how parents’ understanding of childhood shapes their awareness and support for children’s participation in family decision-making in Akropong Akuapem, Ghana. Adopting the interpretivist paradigm, a qualitative analysis of semi-structured interviews with 43 parents conveniently sampled revealed three key themes: dependency; identity formation; and empowerment. Understanding childhood as a period of dependence, parents acknowledge their role as duty-bearers towards their children who are right-holders. Childhood’s role in shaping identity highlights the strong bond between children, families and the community, notably through naming ceremonies and puberty rites. Additionally, considering childhood as an empowering system emphasises children’s active contributions to their development. The study advocates for nurturing childhood as a period of empowerment, facilitating active children’s participation in family decisions concerning them whilst upholding rich cultural values. These insights have practical implications for Ghanaian culture and human rights.