Socialization / Social Experience

Socialization is the process through which people are taught their Culture.

Through social interaction, individuals develop a sense of Self (“distinct sense of identity”).

Agents of Socialization

1. Family (Most important agent of socialization)
   • Lays down basic sense of Self
   • Teaches skills & Values
   • Family also decides our Social Standing, our gender roles, and our Birth order
2. School
   • Knowledge & skills, hidden Curriculum, gender roles, introduces children to the peer group
3. Peer Group
   • Immensely powerful because:
     • based on common interest
     • provides guidelines for all aspects of life
     • threat of expulsion
   • Anticipatory socialization
   • Influences behaviour that VIOLATES social norms
4. Mass Media
   • Impersonal communications aimed at a wide audience
   • Often mirrors (reinforces) social inequality
   • Concerns?
   • What about social media?
5. Workplace
   • Observe parents
   • Anticipatory socialization
   • Occupational socialization
   • New skills as technology changes
6. Government
   • Many of the traditional family’s functions have been transferred to the state
   • Influences values, norms
7. Religion
   • Cultural components:
     • Symbols, language
     • Values, beliefs
     • Norms