Agents of Socialization Flashcards
Who are the primary agents of socialization?
Family, peer group, education, mass media
How does family affect socialization?
Gender stereotyping (e.g., giving a girl a doll), socioeconomic status, cultural capital, ethnicity
How do peer groups affect socialization?
Conformity with the group, importance of style/clothes, common interests
How does education affect socialization?
The ‘hidden curriculum’ such as learning to follow rules and regulations, developing work habits, competition for rewards, learning about dominant culture in society.
How does mass media affect socialization?
Glamorous imagery, images of wealth and beauty, idealized imagery of romantic love, money buys happiness.
What are types of mass media?
Television, film, radio, internet, social networking, newspapers, magazines.
How does commercial radio affect socialization?
Mainstream music stations on play “hits” by superstars. Advertising and programming is aimed at specific demographic groups. E.g., Rock 102 for males, C95 for females.
How does the internet affect socialization?
Has become more commercialized and corporate (amazon, paypal, Facebook, etc). Some web pages are ideologically biased and spread messages (e.g., hate messages).
How does newspapers and magazines affect socialization?
Magazines/newspapers are heavily dependent on advertising. Content is limited by the amount of space. Some magazines/papers are targeted at specific demographics.
Review the idealized social life course
pg. 17 of notes
What are institutions aimed at ‘resocialization’?
Prisons, asylums, reform schools, boot camps.
