SOCIALIZATION :
Meaning and definition –
The social and cultural training of individuals that enables them to learn different aspects of
culture and social life is known as socialization. This is a process that begins at birth and
continues till the end of life. It is the process through which new born individual is moulded
into social being. In other words this is the process by which social norms and values are
internalized. The child learns, through contact with others, through the part of listening, and
through languages, the social rules and values; these become internalizes them through a
process of learning.
H.M.Johnson – socialization is a learning that enables the learner to perform social roles,
norms, values etc. A process by which individuals acquire the already existence culture of
the groups they come into.
Green defined socialisation “as the process by which the child acquires a cultural content,
along with selfhood and personality”.
Aims and objectives of socialization:
1. Socialization inculcates basic discipline ranging from toilet habits to the method of
science.
2. It develops skills and capacities needed to fit into the society.
3. It teaches the social roles and their supportive attitudes.
4. It instills aspirations and satisfies needs of the individual.
5. It helps in the transmission of culture from generation to generation.
6. It develops the sense of identity and capacity for independent thought and action.
7. It develops conscience which is one important characteristic product of this process.
Types of socialization:
1. Primary socialization: it refers to the socialization during the early years of childhood
which takes place within the family, pure groups of close friends and closely-knit
groups of neibours.
- in primary socialization 2 basic process are involved namely:-
internalization of society’s culture
the structuring of personality
2. secondary socialization: it occurs during the later part of the years. It involves
learning how to organize conduct oneself in formal context and how to behave
towards people who have different degrees of status and authorities.
- School is an important agency of the secondary socialization.
3. Anticipatory socialization :
This is the socialization process in which a person, rehearses for future positions,
occupation and social relationships. Sometimes a person may aspire to belong to a
group and before actually entering the group, he or she may prepare himself or
herself by anticipatory socialization.
4. Resocialization:
It is a deliberate and systematic efforts to alter an individuals current behaviour
pattern and give him/her a new set of values, beliefs and standards.
- Resocializations may be voluntary or involuntary.
- Ex- prisons, military, alcoholics, religious institutions.
5. Reverse socialization:
It refers to the process where by people normally being socialized at the same time
socializing, they are socializer.
Ex- relation of parents and children
6. Gender socialization:
It refers to the process by which a child learns the difference based on gender. The
sex of an individual is a biological construct and it refers to the male and female
distinction between human species.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, socialization is a fundamental process that shapes individuals’
identities, values, and behaviours, enabling them to function effectively within
society. Through interactions with family, peers, education, and media, people
internalize norms, develop social skills, and adapt to cultural expectations. While it
fosters cohesion and cooperation, socialization also evolves with societal changes,
highlighting the need for critical reflection to balance conformity with individuality.
Ultimately, effective socialization equips us to navigate diverse social environments,
build meaningful relationships, and contribute positively to our communities.
