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ERIC Number: EJ1009443
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2013-May
Pages: 15
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0907-5682
EISSN: N/A
Cul-de-Sac Kids
Hochschild, Thomas R., Jr.
Childhood: A Global Journal of Child Research, v20 n2 p229-243 May 2013
Previous research indicates that adults who live on cul-de-sac streets are more likely to have positive experiences with neighbors than residents of other street types (Brown and Werner, 1985; Hochschild Jr, 2011; Mayo Jr, 1979; Willmott, 1963). The present research ascertains whether street design has an impact on children's neighborhood experiences. The author interviewed 73 adults who live on cul-de-sacs and 37 adults who live on through-streets ("N" = 110) to determine adults' understandings of children's neighborhood experiences. The data reveal three primary benefits for children raised on cul-de-sacs. First, because cul-de-sacs tend to be territorial streets, parents are more likely to let their children play outside unattended under the watchful eyes of neighbors. These neighbors provide a social safety net for cul-de-sac children and their friends. Second, because they are aware that they are likely being watched, cul-de-sac children are less likely to partake in deviant activities while on their street. The author refers to this internalized form of self-discipline as street panopticism. Third, the low traffic levels on cul-de-sacs create greater opportunity for uninterrupted play, thus drawing cul-de-sac kids outside for individual and group recreation. The author argues that cul-de-sacs, as well as other low-traffic streets, can enhance children's neighborhood experiences and create more vibrant neighborhoods. (Contains 1 figure and 4 notes.)
SAGE Publications. 2455 Teller Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320. Tel: 800-818-7243; Tel: 805-499-9774; Fax: 800-583-2665; e-mail: journals@sagepub.com; Web site: http://sagepub.com
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research; Tests/Questionnaires
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Connecticut
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A