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Political Socialization

Definition

Political socialization is the process by which individuals acquire their political attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors through interactions with family, peers, education systems, media, and other socializing agents.

Analogy

Imagine political socialization as a puzzle being put together. Each piece represents different influences in your life - your family, friends, teachers - that shape your understanding of politics. As you grow up and gather more pieces (influences), your puzzle (political identity) becomes complete.

Related terms

Agents of Socialization: Institutions or individuals such as family members, schools, religious organizations, and media that play a role in shaping an individual's political socialization.

Generational Effect: The impact on an individual's political attitudes based on the historical events they experienced during their formative years.

Peer Group Influence: The influence exerted by one's friends or peers in shaping their political opinions and behaviors.