Individualization

This chapter explains the individualization theory by referring to some of the key works forming the theoretical body and it will be placed in the context of the overriding theoretical concept of the risk society. It focuses on the three works outlining the concept: individualization as part of the overall theory of the risk society and the reflexive modernity as elaborated by Beck, individualization as further elaborated in the compiled works of Beck and Beck-Gernsheim and finally, individualization specified and operationalized as a framework for empirical research as detailed in the above referred 2007 paper. The theory will be discussed in relation to children as this is of overall interest for this work, and a new critical argument will be presented, arguing the existence of a potential theoretical weak spot. Finally, the parameters for the empirical application of the theory to this particular work will be set, specifically addressing concepts of the individual, the welfare state, institutions and technological change.