The socialisation process

What is socialisation?

The process by which we are assimilated into society and taught its norms and values.

What is primary socialisation?

This is socialisation carried out by our families and some forms of religion with individualistic standards. It teaches us basic manners amongst other base level skills.

What is secondary socialisation?

Socialisation carried out later in life by media, education, religion and peer groups. It operates on universalistic standards and does most of the heavy lifting when it comes to teaching norms and values.

What are feral children (provide an example)

These are children who lack any primary socialisation from other humans. For example, in 1918 2 young girls called Kamala and Amala were found living in a jungle with wolves. Amongst other animalistic behaviours, they used no language or gestures to communicate with other humans.

What are norms and values?

Values are accepted and desirable beliefs in a society. Norms are values put into action.

How do conflict theorists (feminists and Marxists) critique socialisation?

They argue that it legitimates and replicates inequalities in society via harmful norms and values.

Why do consensus theorists (functionalists and the new right) see socialisation as a good thing?

They say that without adequate socialisation, society would collapse into pure anarchy. The new right take this one step further and argue that inadequate socialisation is due to non-nuclear families and has caused rising crime rates