Agents of Socialization

The agents of socialization are the means through which social normsA norm is a rule, standard, or pattern for action. Social norm refers to shared standards of acceptable behaviour by a group of people. The norms in any society are based... More are impressed on an individual. There are various ways individuals are taught acceptable values, norms, and skills in societyThe term society is derived from the Latin word 'socius' meaning friendship or companionship. Society is a community, nation or group of people who share the same traditions, institutions, rules and... More. The family, mass media, school, religious and voluntary organizations, community and peer groups are agents of socialization.

Family: 

This is the first contact of the child, therefore, they are the first agent of socialization for every individual. The family unit a child is born into plays an important role in the socialization of the child.

The family teaches the child socially acceptable behaviour, norms, values, dressing, acquisition and use of language, eating habits, respect for elders and so on.

Here, the child learns from the parents and siblings in the formative years of their infancy, and the knowledge acquired here will affect the child’s secondary (or Adulthood) socialization.

Mass Media: 

Mass media refers to a diverse array of media technologies that reach a large audience via mass communication, such as radio, television, newspaper, social media and magazine, internet.

They contribute to socialization by giving information about sports, politics, foreign culture, and education.

Political socialization is a process by which individuals acquire political ideas, beliefs, attitudes, normsand values as well as citizenship training that helps them adapt to a political system.

Through mass media, children and adults learn about things happening in their immediate environment and the world at large.

Mass Media reinforces the efforts of the family, school and other agents, although there is a need for parental guidance in the use of this agent.

School: 

The school is an agent through which the child acquires formal education. It plays an important role in educating and shaping the personality of a child.

The school transmits not only skill and practical knowledge but also important life values such as patriotism, ambition, concern for others, and so on.

Schools provide children with opportunities to interact with diverse individuals, including teachers and students from various backgrounds, which helps them develop social skills and adapt to different people.

Religious Organization: 

Religious organizations are a very important agent of socialization. They are often seen as having a significant impact on the character development of individuals. They do so through various means, including teaching moral values, promoting spiritual growth, and fostering a sense of community

The three main religions in Nigeria are Christianity, Islam, and traditional religions. With Christianity, the teachings promote peace, love, patience, kindness, and fear of God; this helps with the spiritual and moral development of a child. Islam also has teachings that positively affect the development of a child. However, the same cannot be said for all traditional religions.

Peer Group (Playmates or Age Group):

Peer groups are formed when children of the same (or similar) ages come together to interact, play, share ideas, and views, thereby influencing each other negatively or positively.

When a child keeps good company, it is evident by the good behaviour of the child; similarly, a child exhibiting disruptive or negative behaviours can influence other students. Hence, parents are advised to watch and guide the choice of friends their children keep.

Voluntary Organization:

Voluntary organizations act as agents of socialization by influencing individuals’ values, beliefs, and behaviours through various activities and interactions.

Voluntary organizations within schools act as important agents of socialization, influencing students’ development of social norms, values, and skills.

These include Road Safety Clubs, Red Cross, Boy Brigade, Boy and Girl Scouts, Rotary Club, etc.

The Community:

A community is a group of people living in a particular area, and it plays a crucial role in shaping individuals’ behaviours, values, and beliefs through interactions, shared experiences, and the transmission of cultural norms.

It provides opportunities for opportunity for social interaction and defines the acceptable ways by which members should behave, contributing to an individual’s understanding of their place in society.