Abstract:

The main objective of this study is to reveal the modern theoretical social policy approaches towards children. Social policy is defined and thought as the process where measures are taken to minimize the existing inequalities within a society. Contemporary social policy approaches towards are put forward and evaluated within the theoretical framework (egalitarian, libertarian, contractarian and utilitarian). These approaches are as follows: Basic needs approach, child rights conventions, nutrition rights. Basic needs approach focuses on providing at least the minimum levels of goods and services to keep children alive. Contractarian approaches are trying to ensure that all children benefit from the same rights within the legal framework. The best interests of the child, the responsibility of the family and the government, the right to enhance abilities and the right to be healthy principles are also evaluated within the theoretical framework (egalitarian, libertarian, contractarian and utilitarian). Nutrition rights are also covered under these subtitles: history of nutrition rights, nutrition rights and the priority of children. As this study is a literature review, the subjects are discussed in a historical, philosophical and political context. Therefore there are no specific results in this paper. Thus, contemporary social policy approaches towards children are reviewed in a theoretical manner. The aim of this paper is not to discuss the real life practices but to thoroughly address the contemporary approaches to child social policy.

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