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socialization

soh-shuh-ly-ZAY-shun /ˌsəʊʃəlaɪˈzeɪʃn/

nounC1GRETOEFLIELTS

academicformal

The process by which individuals learn norms, customs, values, and behaviors required to function in society.

Focuses on internalizing cultural and communal habits rather than just casual chatting.

The story behind the word. From Latin 'socius' (ally/friend), giving rise to 'social' in the 16th century. 'Socialization' gained widespread sociological currency in the early 20th century to describe how communities shape child behavior.

Word relationships

enculturation: Enculturation focuses specifically on acquiring culture and rituals, while socialization encompasses broader behavioral skills.
integration: Integration means incorporating someone into a group, whereas socialization is the learning process enabling it.

isolation: Isolation involves separation from social contact and cultural exposure.
alienation: Alienation is feeling estranged from society rather than integrated.

Commonly confused with

socializing: Socializing is informal mingling, while socialization is the systemic process of learning cultural rules.

Word family

socialize (verb): To train or condition to fit into social order.
social (adjective): Relating to society and human interaction.

Collocations

early socialization
agents of socialization
socialization process
peer socialization

Example sentences

"Preschool provides crucial socialization where children learn sharing, turn-taking, and active listening." Sociology of education text

Memory hook

SOCIALization makes a child fit to live in a SOCIAL circle. Learning the hidden rules of living together.

When not to use

Do not confuse with simply having a casual party or gathering.

Fun facts

Sociologists identify four primary agents of socialization: family, school, peers, and mass media.