Tinydopers: A Case Study Of Deviant Socialization

The relatively new practice of tinydopers—marijuana smoking by children between the ages of 0–8 years—is introduced and analyzed. The children are examined through a descriptive ethnography, followed by more general conclusions about the developmental process itself. We then look at the varied range of approaches parents take toward marijuana and their youngsters. An overview analysis of marijuana's cultural and historical evolution in this country shows how an atmosphere favorable to tinydoping has arisen. The changing social meanings associated with pot use that led to its successive legitimization and spread are viewed not as an isolated or unusual occurrence but as representing a general model for social change. Proposing a sequential diffusion process for deviant activities as they gradually become accepted, we examine the social revulsion and backlash that occurs when such practices become adopted by sacred societal groups like children. From the literature, only Becker's (1953) theory of becoming a marijuana user is relevant to this research, and its continued generic applicability is reviewed in light of this new addition to the using population. A modification of his theory suggests why an alternate route to marijuana using may now exist. Finally, a discussion of socialization compares this childrearing innovation to normative practices of the past. Although parents view their actions as normal, tinydoping must presently be considered as deviant socialization.