To Örebro University

Girls in Swedish Medical Science (1870-1930)

This study investigates the evolution of perceptions surrounding girls and girlhood within Swedish medical science from 1870 to 1930. In the late nineteenth century, the compromised health of girls dominated Swedish medical discourse, resonating with similar concerns in Western countries. A prevailing stereotype depicted girls as afflicted with various diseases and ailments. However, the early twentieth century witnessed a transformation in scientific opinions, revealing a positive trend towards improved girls' health. Despite the persistent gendered notions of children and youths throughout the study period, a growing number, including some within the medical community, began to scrutinize and challenge these established beliefs.

The emerging portrayal of the girl in medical publications diverged from the conventional image of weakness and illness, instead presenting a picture of a robust and active individual. This prompts a critical inquiry into whether this new representation was primarily a creation of popular medicine. Examination of health studies from the era unveils noteworthy changes in the medical discourse on sickness and health for both genders. Initially, concepts of sickness and health underwent modifications over time, resulting in a decline in the categorization of children as sick.

Furthermore, gender disparities in health became less pronounced, with girls initially perceived as more susceptible to illnesses than boys. However, by the 1930s, this distinction had dissipated, and both sexes appeared to experience comparable levels of health or illness. This departure from the initial gendered perceptions underscores the dynamic nature of medical attitudes toward children's well-being.

As a contribution to this publication, this historical article illuminates the transformative trajectory of the medical discourse on girls. Supported by examples from medical perspectives on illness, physical activity, and women's clothing, it aims to elucidate the complex interplay between evolving medical knowledge, societal perceptions, and the actual health status of girls in Sweden during this pivotal period.