INTRODUCTION
This chapter explores the social contexts related to "Little Adults," examines the historical issues of Vietnamese children's television, and situates them within the contemporary globalized landscape It outlines the research problems and questions, clarifies the methodology, and provides an overview of the subsequent chapters.
Reality Television (RTV) emerged in the 1990s in Western countries and encompasses a diverse range of subgenres focused on documenting the lives of ordinary people in staged environments, such as islands or sets As Hill (2005) describes, RTV is a broad category that merges entertainment with elements of reality, often referred to as popular factual television, straddling the line between information and entertainment, documentary and drama Its appeal lies in the blend of entertainment and authenticity, showcasing real people, events, emotions, and experiences that encourage viewers to engage in self-awareness and personal growth The rise of RTV can be linked to significant changes in the economy and the entertainment sector, particularly the deregulation and commercialization of media industries in the USA and Western Europe.
At first, RTV may appear to be primarily significant in Western social contexts; however, with the rise of media globalization—particularly evident in the global trade of television entertainment formats—RTV is increasingly becoming a defining aspect of contemporary global consumer culture Its success in Western nations highlights its growing influence and relevance worldwide.
1 huge number of audiences and generating a profusion of profits, the "wave" of RTV began to spread across national borders to Asian countries, including Vietnam
Despite ongoing criticism that RTV for children merely mirrors adult versions for profit, this view is overly simplistic While financial motives are undeniably present, overlooking cultural, historical, and social influences limits our understanding Kraidy and Sender (2011) highlight that many imported RTV formats are significantly adapted to reflect local traditions, values, and aesthetics; without these elements, such programs face inevitable failure The notion of globalized formats broadens television studies beyond industrial aspects, emphasizing the diverse social discourses that emerge from these formats In Vietnam, RTV for children exemplifies this necessary localization, driven by child-centered needs and preferences.
This article explores the influence of Vietnamese RTV on the perception of childhood within specific social contexts, focusing on the portrayal of children as "Little Adults." Utilizing media literacy and cultural studies, the research examines how contemporary reality shows, particularly "The Voice Kids of Vietnam," contribute to this reconstruction of childhood The study includes a detailed analysis of four prominent coaches to illustrate these themes.
Vietnamese programs for children: from “Little Flowers” to reality game shows
In the process of television socialization brought by the post-Reform context of accelerating marketization and globalization, Vietnamese reality programs have
Vietnamese RTV has evolved both horizontally and vertically, expanding into diverse genres and targeting a wide audience across various ethnicities, genders, occupations, and ages Over the past decade, media corporations in Vietnam have increasingly focused on children and youth as key revenue sources Children often appear alongside adults in reality shows or in programs tailored specifically for them, often adapted from successful adult formats Today, the presence of children in TV shows is seen as a way to evoke strong emotions, engage viewers, and boost ratings.
Vietnamese children's television has evolved through three distinct stages, beginning with the debut of "Little Flowers" in 1970, coinciding with the establishment of Vietnam Television This initial phase featured programs like “The Garden Of Fairy Tales” (1997) and “Good Night Baby” (2007), creating a whimsical playground for children through songs, cartoons, and storytelling The second stage introduced quiz shows that emphasized educational content, focusing on competitive formats where children answered questions based on the national curriculum, highlighting academic proficiency among contestants.
“Vietnam's Brainiest Kid” ("Chinh phục”-2013), “The Kids Are All Right” (“Trẻ em luôn đúng”- 2011) and "Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader?" (“Ai thông minh hơn học sinh lớp 5?”-2009)
The rising trend of reality game shows and talent competitions for children has shifted focus from traditional education to nurturing diverse skills such as music, role-play, cooking, and entrepreneurship Programs like "Đồ Rê Mí," "The Voice Kids of Vietnam," and "Master Chef Kids of Vietnam" emphasize individual abilities over academic achievements, allowing participants to showcase their unique talents These shows provide a platform for self-improvement and competition, offering children opportunities to practice, perform, and evolve throughout the series.
About The Voice Kids of Vietnam
Since its debut in 2013, The Voice Kids of Vietnam has become a prominent singing competition for children aged 9 to 15, adapted from the original The Voice Kids of Holland Produced by Cat Tien Sa Media Company and Vietnam Television (VTV), the show offers contestants training in vocal techniques, performance styles, and stage communication, helping them overcome challenges and pursue their dreams of performing With its high level of musical professionalism, The Voice Kids of Vietnam serves as a vital platform for young aspiring singers, enabling them to realize their ambitions in the music industry Additionally, the show effectively utilizes social media for its marketing campaign, aligning with global trends in reality television.
Since its debut in 2013, "The Voice Kids of Vietnam" has gained immense popularity, consistently drawing significant public interest through high viewership and substantial audience votes Episodes are regularly uploaded on VTV's official entertainment account on Facebook and YouTube, further enhancing its reach and engagement.
The Voice Kids Vietnam has garnered impressive ratings in the domestic market due to its engaging format and successful adaptation to Vietnamese culture A key factor in its popularity is the innovative rules that align with Western counterparts, making it a groundbreaking addition to Vietnamese children's entertainment The show features blind auditions, battle rounds, and live final performances, with the unique blind auditions being the most captivating element.
Audiences eagerly anticipate the moment judges turn their chairs to face contestants for the first time, highlighting the excitement of the competition Adhering to principles of fairness and transparency, contestants are judged solely on their singing abilities—power, clarity, type, and uniqueness—rather than their appearance or background Additionally, producers prioritize high quality by meticulously managing all aspects of the show, including preliminary work, lighting, live sound, script outlines, stage settings, and audio post-production, ensuring a top-notch experience for viewers and participants alike.
Localization plays a crucial role in the success of The Voice Kids of Vietnam, as it adapts the original format to resonate with the distinct cultural background of the Vietnamese audience This careful adaptation process aims to meet the psychological and aesthetic preferences of viewers while preserving the show's core elements A key factor in the success of any singing talent show is the music selection, and a significant localized adjustment in The Voice Kids of Vietnam involves incorporating a majority of Vietnamese songs to enhance its appeal.
5 songs, especially broad popular traditional categories, namely folk songs (dân ca),
"Yellow music" (nhạc vàng) and "red music" (nhạc đỏ) reflect a strong Vietnamese identity and tradition, often focusing on themes like patriotism, family, and friendship rather than romantic relationships In the Vietnamese edition of the show, songs are often adapted to emphasize child-centered topics Throughout its seven seasons, the presence of at least one duo coach highlights the importance of family in child-rearing Coaches such as Ho Hoai Anh-Luu Huong Giang and Pham Quynh Anh-Duong Khac Linh symbolize parental roles, providing mentorship and care for contestants They leverage the discourse on family values to attract contestants, promising comprehensive support by stating, “when you come to my team, you will receive attention from both coaches.”
One significant aspect of The Voice Kids Vietnam is its focus on storytelling, highlighting that it's not just the quality of the voice that matters, but also the story behind the singer (Luu, 2015; Lu Wei, 2005, as cited in Wang, 2012) While the contestants' personal narratives do not influence the judges' decisions, they resonate deeply with the audience, making the performers more memorable and enriching the overall viewing experience.
THE RECONSTRUCTION OF “LITTLE ADULTS”
The concept of "Little Adults" has a long history, evolving from medieval times to modern interpretations of childhood This idea varies across different cultures and eras, reflecting diverse perceptions of children In this study, I explore "Little Adults" as a cultural phenomenon relevant to contemporary Vietnamese society and its historical views on childhood While this concept is well-recognized in mainstream discourse, it is crucial to examine the "importation," construction, and adaptation of "Little Adults" from its Western origins within a non-Western context to provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject.
This chapter establishes the foundation for my thesis by exploring the contemporary understanding of "Little Adults" in Vietnam, shaped by a century of social, political, economic, and media influences It specifically examines the relationship between RTV and "Little Adults," highlighting how television programming reflects the prevailing ideologies in society, with RTV being the central focus of this research.
Conceptions Of Childhood/Children Over Time
Originating in the European Middle Ages, the concept of "Little Adults" viewed children as miniature versions of adults, with minimal emotional connection from their parents In this era, children, particularly girls, were quickly pushed into adult roles, as there was no distinct phase known as "childhood." Instead, children seamlessly integrated into the adult world, treated similarly to adults despite their different appearances and developing skills (Cunningham, 2006, p.28).
Thus, “childhood” was defined as “becoming”, and childhood education was expected to equip children with the essential grounding for maturity
In the mid-eighteenth century, the positivist view emerged, challenging previous perspectives by emphasizing biological evidence of children's physical and mental immaturity A significant shift in understanding childhood positively was influenced by philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau, whose work "Emile, Or On Education" (1979) argued that children are inherently innocent and only become corrupted by worldly experiences This interplay between Positivism and Romanticism during the "Golden Age" of children's literature idealized childhood as a divine and virtuous stage, leading to the "Cult of Childhood," which celebrated innocence, freedom, and goodness Unlike the medieval view of children as "Little Adults," this new perspective recognized that childhood should not be rushed but cherished, establishing the notion that children are "emotionally priceless yet economically useless."
The positivist perspective posits that children are inherently different and inferior to adults, who are viewed as more competent and knowledgeable This paradigm connects the concepts of "normal children" and "control of knowledge," which significantly influence childhood education Regardless of race, social class, or culture, the idea of "normal children" reflects an obsession with commonality and standardization Children, perceived as innocent and vulnerable, are often regarded as passive beings unable to assert their own agency.
The "Golden Age" of children's literature, spanning from approximately 1880 to the early twentieth century, marked a significant period when children's books flourished in popularity, producing some of the most remarkable literary works for young readers in history.
Children's learning and development are largely influenced by adult expectations (Shmueli, 2015) According to psychiatrist Benedict (2005, as cited in O’Connor, 2008), the perceived discontinuity between childhood and adulthood, where children are seen as powerless, does not inherently reflect their true nature; rather, these characteristics are imposed on them by societal perceptions.
Since the 1950s, the postmodernist perspective has redefined the concept of "Little Adults," viewing children as valuable individuals rather than passive beings This shift acknowledges that children actively shape their own worlds and cultures, challenging the idea that they are entirely dependent on adults for knowledge With advancements in technology and social media, children now have greater access to the adult world, making age less significant in determining abilities and societal roles In the twenty-first century, the media and leisure industries play a crucial role in shaping the cultural understanding of childhood (Shmueli, 2015).
This section provides a crucial overview of the evolving perceptions of children, essential for understanding the concept of "Little Adults" in this study The thesis examines "Little Adults" from a postmodernist viewpoint, emphasizing that childhood experiences are diverse and not universally standardized, challenging the notion of a singular, compliant child archetype under adult authority.
Vietnamese Notions Of Children/ Childhood
The formation of perspectives on Vietnamese children, including the “integration” of
The phenomenon of "Little Adults" emerging from Western influences in a Southeast Asian country is primarily driven by two key factors: the evolution of internal cultural values and practices in reaction to the changing contemporary social landscape, and the overarching impact of globalization.
19 globalization and international integrating processes as a friendly welcome to external elements
This article explores the evolving perceptions of Vietnamese children from the war era of the 20th century to the present, highlighting significant concerns for their well-being It emphasizes a dual perspective on children, balancing their rights with adults' efforts to safeguard their innocence, alongside the obligations placed on children and the expectations of their capabilities These dynamics shift across different historical contexts, reflecting the varying social conditions of each era.
During wartime, Vietnamese children faced immense challenges and hardships, particularly as many were forced to evacuate from cities to rural areas In the face of these social circumstances, they quickly adapted to their new lives, learning essential survival skills such as digging shelters, raising chickens, and cooking Beyond personal survival, these children played a significant role in the National Revolution, actively participating in campaigns like “Small Plans” and “Thousands of Useful Actions,” demonstrating their resilience and contribution to their country during difficult times.
& Ngoc, 2016) The harshness of war was a lever for children to reinforce their resilience and competence:
Vietnamese children have consistently shown resilience and optimism, much like young sprouts weathering a storm Rather than comparing past and present, it's important to highlight their enduring ability to overcome challenges with a positive outlook (Nguyen, 2016).
As opposed to the notion that these skills and roles automatically imposed the
“miniature adults" concept on children in wartime, the purity and the innocent world of childhood were always emphasized as national agenda:
During the French invasion, our homes were destroyed, and many innocent lives were lost, forcing both adults and children to join the Resistance I deeply care for all of you and assure you that once we defeat the French invaders and achieve victory in the Resistance War, my government and I will work tirelessly to provide you with a prosperous and happy life, where you can enjoy your childhood and receive a proper education.
During wartime, President Ho Chi Minh emphasized the importance of Vietnamese children, highlighting their role in shaping the nation's future His guiding principles, "Children Are The Future Of The Country" and "Young Age Shoulder Small Tasks," reflect his deep commitment to nurturing the younger generation These notions underscore the significance of investing in children's development as a foundation for national progress.
LITTLE ADULTS” IN THE VOICE KIDS OF VIETNAM: THE
THE CULTIVATION OF “CHILD STARS”
The previous chapter explored the concept of "Little Adults" in Vietnamese society, illustrating how a Western idea can be effectively integrated into a Southeast Asian context Among various methods, media, particularly RTV, plays a vital role in fostering and promoting the "Little Adults" phenomenon within the community The success of "The Voice Kids of Vietnam," an imported reality show, highlights its ability to resonate with Vietnamese cultural values, morals, and aesthetics This program, while adhering to the mission of its Dutch original, uniquely nurtures young musical talents in a way that reflects local traditions and sensibilities.
This chapter is divided into two key sections to illustrate the hypothesis The first section explains how "Child Stars," as a product of the media, contribute to the overall narrative.
“Little Adults” The second section focuses on analyzing different strategies to cultivate
“Child Stars” in the program, which simultaneously addresses the question: what is
“Vietnamese” about The Voice Kids of Vietnam?
How “Little Adults and “Child Stars” converge
The phrase "becoming a star" has been a recurring theme throughout the seven seasons of The Voice Kids Vietnam To understand its significance in the program, it's essential to define the concept of "Child Stars" and explore how this idea is woven into the narratives of the young participants, who are often portrayed as "Little Adults." This examination will highlight the cultural implications of fame and the journey of these children in their pursuit of stardom.
The social construction of “Child Stars”: “Child Stars” as a manifestation of
In "The Cultural Significance of the Child Star" (2008), Jane O’Connor explores how media shapes children's identities, with "Child Stars" serving as a prominent example She highlights two key points: first, that "Child Stars" are conceptualized as media products, and second, their lasting appeal is tied to the universal desire for an idealized image of childhood These insights underscore the complex cultural phenomenon of "Child Stars."
The modern concept of "Child Stars" has evolved from its original definition, which primarily referred to young performers in 1920s and 30s Hollywood films, to encompass children who gain recognition in the entertainment industry through public performances, particularly in acting and singing Jane O’Connor describes this era as the "Age of Child Stars," highlighting the growing visibility of children in media and their notable achievements This phenomenon is influenced by specific characteristics that drive children’s aspirations to express themselves and adult expectations of how children should behave To fully understand "Child Stars," it is essential to examine the balance between the identities perceived as "normal" for children and the charisma associated with being a "star," allowing for a nuanced categorization of this unique group.
In today's society, the label 'child star' often represents a unique and challenging childhood experience These young performers are portrayed as exceptional beings, possessing extraordinary talents and wisdom that set them apart from their peers This perception suggests that they are destined for greatness, serving the purpose of entertaining and uplifting audiences, which can lead to a life that deviates significantly from the norm.
From this, it is interpreted that the construction of the child stardom in the media emphasizes what constitutes acceptable, ‘natural’ behaviors for “normal” children and
The phenomenon of child stars, as discussed by Jane O’Connor (2008), challenges the idealized notion of childhood as a purely innocent and family-centered phase, separate from adult responsibilities This "Age of Child Stars" reveals the complexities of growing up in a commodified environment, where the boundaries between childhood and adulthood blur, leading to experiences that deviate from traditional expectations of a "proper" childhood.
The phenomenon of "child stars" illustrates the blurring of boundaries between childhood and adulthood, as these young individuals gain popularity, economic independence, and successful careers typically reserved for adults This increasing visibility of child stars reflects the evolving status of children in modern society, highlighting how media has contributed to their "adultification."
Thanks to the above conceptualization, “Child Stars” can be regarded as a subset of
"Child Stars" represent a unique social phenomenon that reflects both the proactive aspirations and abilities of children, as well as the passive expectations imposed by adults This concept lies between the realms of childhood and adult stardom, highlighting the distinction between 'normal' children as viewers and 'abnormal' children whose images are showcased in the media While "Child Stars" retain inherent traits such as innocence and vulnerability, which often make them more appealing than adult stars, their fame brings financial power and public influence that can accelerate their transition into adulthood Ultimately, "Child Stars" embody the complexities of growing up under the spotlight, balancing childhood innocence with the pressures of celebrity culture.
“Little Adults” in the media
The previous section has outlined the definition and characteristics of “Child Stars” to prove its convergence with “Little Adults” The introduction of “Child Stars”, similar to
The phenomenon of "Child Stars," rooted in Western culture and particularly prominent in Hollywood, reflects a universal human desire that transcends geographical boundaries This article explores how the concept of "Little Adults" serves as a media product, emphasizing its relevance and persistence in the context of Vietnamese RTV, thereby highlighting the global appeal and significance of child stardom.
The "Wonder Child," a primordial archetype identified by psychologist Carl Jung, is explored by Jane O’Connor to link modern "Child Stars" with their historical roots This archetype, part of Jung's broader concept of archetypes, includes the "Wonder Child" or "Divine Child," characterized by supernatural powers, extraordinary strength, or exceptional abilities, as seen in ancient myths and folklore worldwide.
The concept of "Wonder Child" resonates with modern "Child Stars" by reinforcing stereotypical notions of the ideal child This phenomenon aligns with Jung's theory of the "Collective Unconscious," which posits that certain aspects of our deepest unconscious mind are genetically inherited rather than shaped by personal experiences or cultural influences Consequently, these inherited ideas subtly influence our emotions, thoughts, and actions without our conscious awareness (O’Connor, 2008, p.103).
Based on the “Collective Unconscious” premise, the universality and continuity of
“Wonder Child” are explained as follow:
The child motif symbolizes both a historical presence and a contemporary relevance, serving to balance the excessive rationality and progressiveness of the conscious mind This motif aims to reconnect individuals with the fundamental laws and roots of their existence, addressing the inherent one-sidedness of adult perspectives.
(Jung,1959,p.162, as cited by O’Connor, 2008)
Thus, the “new dress” of “Wonder Child” as “Child Stars” is constructed, demanded and maintained because the idea illustrates human hope for future and aspiration to
The portrayal of exceptional children in public media has created a universal mindset of "perfection," fueled by marketing techniques in neo-liberal mass media This has fostered the illusion that anyone can achieve success and fame, significantly increasing the visibility of "Child Stars" worldwide.
In general, a transnational RTV like “The Voice Kids of Vietnam” which promotes
“Child Stars” has been largely welcomed in Vietnam, partly because the existence of
“Child Stars” is tailored for the acceptance of Vietnamese popular culture This is explained by two main points of this section: 1) the convergence of “Little Adults” and
“Child Stars”, and 2) the spiritual origin of “Child Stars” tying to human consciousness regardless of cultural relativism and periods
“Child Stars” As A Singular Discourse In The Voice Kids Of Vietnam
In the talent competition The Voice Kids of Vietnam, the path to becoming a Child Star embodies the dream of being the "chosen one," a sentiment shared by both contestants and coaches Contestants strive to enhance their performances and showcase their unique qualities to advance through the rounds, as individuality significantly boosts their chances of success Meanwhile, coaches play a pivotal role from the initial Blind Audition, highlighting their expertise in transforming young performers into Child Stars.
“You express the attributes of a star, and we will make every effort to make you become a star.” (Duong, 2019)