3. Socialisation

• What is socialisation?


  Socialisation is the process through which individuals learn and internalise the norms, values, behaviours, and social skills appropriate to their society or social group.
• Why is socialisation important for individuals?

  It helps individuals to become functioning members of their society by learning what is expected of them and how to interact with others.
• What is primary socialisation?


  Primary socialisation occurs during early childhood and is primarily carried out by the family.
• What is the role of the family in primary socialisation?

  The family teaches children basic norms and values, as well as primary skills such as language and manners.
• What is secondary socialisation?

  Secondary socialisation happens later in life and is carried out by institutions such as schools, clubs, workplaces, and the media.
• What do individuals learn during secondary socialisation?

  Individuals learn a greater variety of social skills and norms.
• Is socialisation a one-time process?

  No, socialisation is a life-long process with learning continuing throughout adulthood.
• What are the agents of socialisation?

  The agents of socialisation include family, educational institutions, peer groups, media and technology, religion, and the state.
• How do educational institutions function as agents of socialisation?

  They impart cultural norms and knowledge, shaping individuals’ place in the social structure.
• What influence do peer groups have during adolescence?

  Peer groups can significantly influence norms and behaviours, especially through peer pressure.
• How do media and technology act as agents of socialisation?

  They shape societal norms and values.
• What is the impact of socialisation on individual identity?

  Socialisation shapes our individual identity, influencing how we see ourselves and how we relate to others.
• How does socialisation contribute to cultural continuity?

  It plays a key role in the transmission of culture across generations.
• What role does socialisation play in the functioning of society?

  It establishes common values and norms that govern behaviour.
• What can lead to deviance in society?

  Deviance can emerge when individuals reject or fail to internalise societal norms.
• How do functionalists view socialisation?

  Functionalists view socialisation as essential for societal harmony and stability.
• What is the conflict theorists' perspective on socialisation?

  Conflict theorists view socialisation as a way for powerful groups to impose their values and norms on others.
• What do symbolic interactionists focus on in socialisation?

  Symbolic interactionists focus on the social interactions that shape the process of socialisation.
• How do feminist theories view socialisation?

  Feminist theories highlight how socialisation reinforces gender roles and inequalities.
• What do postmodernist theories argue about socialisation?

  Postmodernist theories argue that socialisation is becoming increasingly complex and fragmented with the proliferation of media and technology.
• What are the key impacts of socialisation?

  • Shapes individual identity
  • Internalises societal norms and values
  • Transmits culture across generations
  • Establishes common values and norms in society
  • Can lead to deviance if norms are rejected
• What are the different theoretical perspectives on socialisation?

  • Functionalism: Essential for societal harmony and stability
  • Conflict Theory: Imposition of values by powerful groups
  • Symbolic Interactionism: Focus on social interactions
  • Feminist Theory: Reinforcement of gender roles and inequalities
  • Postmodernism: Complexity and fragmentation due to media and technology
• What are the 6 main agents of socialisation?

  1. Family
  2. Media
  3. Education
  4. Peer groups
  5. Religion
  6. Workplace