ABSTRACT
Through their socialization function, the mass media teach and reinforce societal values. Because socialization involves learning the values and norms of society, for the most part, socialization occurs mainly at certain times of people’s lives. Children, because they have had few life experiences, are the main target for socializing messages. But, socialization occurs whenever people enter a new life stage or try a new life style. Adolescence is a period of socialization as children grow to adulthood and experience new freedoms, new relationships, and new responsibilities. Even adults undergo socialization. Newly arrived immigrants, for example, need to be socialized to a new culture and society. When people begin new jobs, they often need to be socialized to the corporate culture of their workplace. This chapter builds on chapter 5, because socialization involves learning the ways, rules, and norms of society.
