Key Difference – Primary vs Secondary Socialization
Socialization is the process by which an individual, typically a child, becomes acquainted with their society and culture. This allows the child to learn the attitudes, values, norms, mores, taboos, and various social and cultural elements. Socialization is divided into two main categories: primary socialization and secondary socialization. Primary socialization refers to the process of socialization through the family during early childhood, while secondary socialization begins where primary socialization ends and involves other social agents such as education and peer groups. This is the main difference between the two.
Key Takeaways
- Primary socialization occurs during early childhood and is facilitated by the family.
- Secondary socialization begins where primary socialization ends and involves other social agents such as education and peer groups.
- The main difference between primary and secondary socialization is the social agents involved and the stage of life in which they occur.
What is Primary Socialization?
Primary socialization is the process through which a child becomes socialized, primarily through their family, during their early childhood years. The family is the key agent in primary socialization, where the child learns what is accepted and what is not within their society.
What is Secondary Socialization?
Secondary socialization is the process that begins in later years through agencies such as education and peer groups. During secondary socialization, the involvement of the family decreases as other social agents or agencies take on a more prominent role. The child gains new experiences through secondary socialization, which brings them closer to the actual society.
What is the Difference Between Primary and Secondary Socialization?
Primary socialization refers to the process where the child becomes socialized through the family in the early childhood years, while secondary socialization refers to the process that begins in later years through agencies such as education and peer groups. The main difference between the two lies in the social agents involved and the stage of life in which they occur.