Socialization HSP3M
Socialization The process by which people learn what they need to know to become a member of society
Agents of Socialization The Family Peer Groups School Culture The Media
Family First and most important socializing agent Family is motivated to help an infant develop to their fullest potential Feral children example Family socializes children intentionally and unintentionally Basic skills (walking, talking, etc.) Values/ethics How to behave in situations, interact with others
Family Child abuse can have a profound impact on a child Causes Physical Emotional Sexual Neglect Causes Stress History of abuse (“cycle of violence”)
The Peer Group Other people the same age Usually second agent of socialization Give insight into behaviour of others and how we appear to others Pressure to conform More important during adolescence Which is more significant: the family or the peer group?
School Goal is to socialize children in knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to become productive members of society Not just for children anymore Formal curriculum and the “hidden” curriculum (attitudes, habits, respect, etc.) Also facilitate peer socialization
Culture Influences parenting techniques Gender roles Values, mores Japanese vs. American parents Gender roles Sex is biological (male or female) Gender is learned Social roles, psychological characteristics Influenced by family (think of household chores), school, societal attitudes Values, mores Norms involving ethical/moral judgements
The Media TV, radio, print, web The average young person (8-19) spends 6 ¾ hours per day immersed in media Often using multiple forms simultaneously By 18, the average child will have witness at least 18,000 simulated murders on TV
Questions Which agent has the biggest impact on your overall attitudes/behaviours? Which agent is most responsible for gender differences?
Articles Read your article Which agent(s) of socialization does the article discuss? In what ways are young people being socialized? Is this positive or negative?
HW P. 126 #1,3