Socialisation.In this essay I will be discussing the process of socialisation, including its different stages; agents; and the importance of culture in relation to socialisation. I will also briefly look at socialisation as a deterministic process,
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Introduction
SOCIALISATION In this essay I will be discussing the process of socialisation, including its different stages; agents; and the importance of culture in relation to socialisation. I will also briefly look at socialisation as a deterministic process, however personally, I don't believe socialisation is deterministic, as we always have choices in our life. Finally I will discuss the importance of socialisation in becoming a functioning human being. Socialisation is a process "through which one learns how to act according to the rules and expectations of a particular culture."1 It is through the process of socialisation that an individual becomes a participating member of society. Society is however, a very broad term. Newman defines the concept of society as being "a population of people living in the same geographic area who share a culture and a common identity, and whose members fall under the same political authority."2 Obviously there are many individuals living within society, yet in order for a person to participate in society, the socialisation process must take place. ...read more.
Middle
Children also learn how to act by going to school. Education teaches young children to read and write, but more importantly, it teaches them to socialise, and how to behave in certain situations. Musgrave believes that "education is concerned with the transmission of norms and knowledge to those of all ages"6, mainly to the younger members of society. During their schooling years, interaction with peers is important, especially in adolescence, and it can help shape an individuals view of the world, and how they see themselves. The mass media also has a large influence on children during the time where socialisation is most important. The mass media influences children in the form of radio, television, books, tapes, CDs, and newspapers. The most common form of media for children is the television, which can influence a child's perspective on life both positively and negatively. For example, violent television shows are quite common in Australia (For example 'Power Rangers', 'Ninja Turtles', and wrestling,), and thus it is not surprising to see children getting into fights at school, as they are clearly influenced by what they see on the television. ...read more.
Conclusion
Thus, socialisation is an important part in becoming human, as it influences the people we become, and the paths our lives take. 1 Newman, DM, 2000. Sociology: Exploring the Architecture of Everyday Life, Pine Forge Press, California. 2 Newman, DM, 2000. Sociology: Exploring the Architecture of Everyday Life, Pine Forge Press, California. P39 3 Jureidini, R; Kenny, S & Poole, M (Eds.), 1997. Sociology: Australian Connections, Allen & Unwin, St Leonards.P173 4 Jureidini, R; Kenny, S & Poole, M (Eds.), 1997. Sociology: Australian Connections, Allen & Unwin, St Leonards. P169 5 Jureidini, R; Kenny, S & Poole, M (Eds.), 1997. Sociology: Australian Connections, Allen & Unwin, St Leonards. P169 6 Musgrave, PW, 1987. Socialising Contexts, Allen & Unwin Australia, Sydney. P56 7 McNall, SG, 1969. The Sociological Experience, Little Brown & Company, Minnesota.. P73 8 Aspin, LJ, 1992. Focus on Australian Society, Longman Australia, Melbourne. P14. 9 Jensen, AF, 1971. Sociology: concepts and concerns, Rand McNally & company, Chicago. P48 10 Newman, DM, 2000. Sociology: Exploring the Architecture of Everyday Life, Pine Forge Press, California. P111 ...read more.
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