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socialization

American  
[soh-shuh-luh-zey-shuhn] / ˌsoʊ ʃə ləˈzeɪ ʃən /

noun

  1. a continuing process whereby an individual acquires a personal identity and learns the norms, values, behavior, and social skills appropriate to their social position.

  2. the act or process of aligning with the precepts of socialism.

    the socialization of industry.


socialization British  
/ ˌsəʊʃəlaɪˈzeɪʃən /

noun

  1. psychol the modification from infancy of an individual's behaviour to conform with the demands of social life

  2. the act of socializing or the state of being socialized

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

socialization Cultural  
  1. Learning the customs, attitudes, and values of a social group, community, or culture. Socialization is essential for the development of individuals who can participate and function within their societies, as well as for ensuring that a society's cultural features will be carried on through new generations. Socialization is most strongly enforced by family, school, and peer groups and continues throughout an individual's lifetime. (See also acculturation.)


Etymology

Origin of socialization

First recorded in 1885–90; socialize + -ation

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"Religion may provide some way of making sense of the world, some sense of identity in relation to others, that can't easily be replaced by other forms of socialization," Oostrom said.

From Science Daily

This will ultimately help with Angela’s socialization and the well-being of the entire family.

From Los Angeles Times

This also doesn’t mean you should always prioritize socialization over solitude.

From MarketWatch

"My struggle goes beyond what you see on camera or how I present myself," he said, pointing to years of speech and occupational therapy as well as socialization training.

From Barron's

The answer often reveals how much solitude and socialization a person needs.

From MarketWatch