Sociology Chapter 4 Socialization Section 1: The Importance of socialization

Nearly all the human social behavior we consider natural and normal is learned.

Socialization The cultural process of learning to participate in group life. The most important learning occurs early in life. Without socialization, a human infant cannot develop the set of attitudes, beliefs, values, and behaviors associated with being an individual.

How do monkeys react to social isolation? Harry Harlow (Psychologist) Devised a famous experiment that showed the negative effects of social isolation on rhesus monkeys. Determined closeness and comfort were more important to these monkeys than food. Infant monkey raised in isolation became distressed, apathetic (no interest), withdrawn, and hostile adult animals.

Can we generalize from monkeys to humans? Many experts on human development believe that for human infants, emotional needs for affection, intimacy, and warmth are as important as physiological needs for food, water, and protection.

Case Studies on Isolated Children: Anna and Isabelle Anna was kept in a small room. For five years Anna only received milk to drink. At the time of her discovery, she was malnourished. She could not walk or talk Showed few signs of intelligence. At the age of seven, her mental age was only nineteen months. Social maturity was that of a two year old. Acquired the speech level of a two year old. She died at age ten.

Isabelle Hidden away because her mother was unmarried. Mother stayed in a dark room with her daughter for six and a half years. By the time she was eight and a half years old, she was on the same educational path as children her own age. Isabelle benefited from intensive instruction. She was confined with her mother for company and comforting.

What can we learn from these case studies? The personal and social development associated with being human is acquired through intensive and prolonged social contact with others.