Sociology: Socialization and Identity

These flashcards cover key concepts from the lecture on sociology, including socialization, identity formation, and the influence of culture.

Socialization

The process by which individuals learn and internalize the norms, values, and beliefs of their culture.

Nature vs. Nurture Debate

A discussion on the extent to which our traits are shaped by genetics (nature) or by social influences and environment (nurture).

Agents of Socialization

The individuals, groups, and institutions that influence personal attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors.

Culture Shock

The feeling of disorientation experienced by someone when they are suddenly subjected to an unfamiliar culture or way of life.

Resocialization

The process of learning new norms, values, and behaviors when entering a different social context or environment.

Status

A recognizable position that an individual occupies within social structures, which can be associated with certain roles and expectations.

Achieved Status

A social status that a person attains as a result of their own actions or accomplishments.

Role Conflict

A situation that occurs when an individual is confronted with incompatible expectations from two or more positions they occupy.

Role Strain

The stress or difficulty experienced when a single role has conflicting expectations.

Cultural Norms

The rules and expectations by which a society guides the behavior of its members.

Social Stratification

The hierarchical arrangement of individuals in society based on wealth, income, education, or social status.

Politeness Norms

Culturally defined expectations of courteous behavior in social interactions.

Primary Socialization

The first phase of socialization that occurs during childhood, primarily influenced by family.

Formal Training

Structured learning intended to prepare an individual for specific roles or tasks, usually provided by an organization.

Informal Rules

Unwritten norms and expectations about behavior that are learned through social interactions.

Snap Judgment

A quick and often subconscious decision made about a person's social status or intentions based on initial impressions.

Identity

The qualities, beliefs, personality, looks, and expressions that make a person or group distinct.