ABSTRACT
This chapter presents a theory of socialization that will serve as the framework for the discussion of issues concerning heavy metal music and adolescent socialization. This theory distinguishes between two general patterns of socialization. Under broad socialization, individualism, independence, and self-expression are encouraged, with the result that a broad range of individual differences in abilities and desires is expressed. In most cultures, socialization takes place from seven sources: family, peers/friends, school, neighborhood/community, the media, the legal system, and the cultural belief system. The family is of primary importance in socialization in every culture, but the other sources must be considered as well. The chapter shows how the similarities that are often the basis for friendships among metalheads include not only their common enthusiasm for heavy metal music, but also their goals for their lives and their high sensation-seeking personalities.
