Socialization and Its Theories

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts related to socialization and its theories, helping students understand the definitions and implications of each term.

Socialization

The lifelong process of learning culture, values, norms, and behaviors necessary to participate in society.

Looking-glass self (Cooley)

Theory that our self develops by imagining how others perceive us, interpreting their reactions, and forming feelings about ourselves based on that.

Role-taking (Mead)

The ability to put ourselves in another person's shoes to understand their perspective, explained through stages: imitation, play, games, and the 'generalized other'.

Hidden curriculum

The informal lessons taught in schools beyond academics, such as obedience, teamwork, gender roles, or authority.

Anticipatory socialization

Learning roles or behaviors in preparation for future life changes, e.g., teens preparing for adult jobs or college.

Resocialization

Learning new norms and values when entering a new role or environment, e.g., a soldier adapting to military culture.

Total institution (Goffman)

A setting where people are isolated and controlled by an authority, undergoing intense resocialization, e.g., prisons or boot camps.

Life course

The stages of life people pass through from birth to death, shaped by society's expectations and norms at each stage.

Disengagement theory

A perspective on aging suggesting older adults naturally withdraw from social roles and responsibilities as they prepare for death.

Activity theory

A perspective that argues older people are happier and healthier when they remain active and socially involved.

Continuity theory

A perspective stating that people age best by continuing roles, habits, and lifestyles from earlier in life, adjusting them as necessary.