Muchitos, melarchía and respect. Childhood, sicknessand intergenerational relationships in an Afromexicantown in the Coast of Oaxaca

Abstract

This research analyzes how childhood is conceptualized in a Black or Afro-mexican town of Oaxaca’sPacific Coast and how children participate in family and social networks. Since childhood is a social, culturaland historical construct, it is essential to know which behaviors and attitudes are considered characteristicof this stage of life and which sicknesses are associated to it, as well as the approximate ages that define itand the words used to refer to children in the context of the study. It is also necessary to take into accountthe relations between children, their relatives and godfathers, because intergenerational relationships areanother significant aspect of childhood. This way, this paper contributes to the interdisciplinary discussionson childhood and people from African descent, incorporating historical and anthropological aspects.