Which among the following are correct about Parsons' notion of socialization?

A. In the socialization process norms and values of a system are internalized and become part of the actor's conscience.
B. Socialization is a conservative process in which need dispositions bind children to the social system.
C. Parsons sees socialization as a life-long experience.
D. In the socialization process, there is little or no room for creativity.

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Correct option is D

A, B, C and D only

Parsons' theory of socialization focuses on how individuals internalize societal norms, values, and behaviors, which are essential for the maintenance of a social system. Let’s analyze each option:

• A. In the socialization process norms and values of a system are internalized and become part of the actor's conscience. This is an essential element of Parsons' theory. Socialization helps individuals internalize societal norms and values, making them an inherent part of the person's conscience.

• B. Socialization is a conservative process in which need dispositions bind children to the social system. This point reflects Parsons' view that socialization is conservative, reinforcing societal norms and structures, thus ensuring the stability and continuity of the social system.

• C. Parsons sees socialization as a life-long experience. According to Parsons, socialization is not restricted to childhood but continues throughout an individual's life. It is a continuous process as individuals adapt to different roles and contexts as they grow.

• D. In the socialization process, there is little or no room for creativity. Parsons views socialization as a structured process that emphasizes conformity to norms, limiting the scope for individual creativity. The social system's stability is prioritized, with socialization serving to ensure individuals adhere to established norms.

Thus, all four statements are accurate representations of Parsons' view on socialization, and the correct answer is A, B, C, and D.

Information Booster:

• Internalization of norms and values is crucial in Parsons' theory as it ensures social order by making individuals regulate their own behavior according to societal expectations.
• Conservative process of socialization emphasizes the reproduction of societal values and norms, ensuring continuity and stability within a society.
• Life-long experience of socialization highlights that people continue to learn and adapt to social roles throughout their lives. This process is not limited to childhood but extends through adolescence and adulthood.
• Limitation on creativity during socialization reflects the role of social systems in enforcing conformity and social order. Creativity is often seen as secondary to the maintenance of societal norms.

Additional Information:

• A. Internalization of norms – The internalization process is fundamental to the development of the individual’s conscience, which guides their behavior in social contexts.
• B. Conservative process – Parsons emphasizes that socialization serves to preserve the social order, making it a conservative process where societal norms are passed down and maintained across generations.
• C. Life-long process – This perspective on socialization recognizes that individuals continue to experience socialization through different life stages and roles, such as becoming a parent, worker, or elder.
• D. Limited creativity – While creativity is valued in some contexts, Parsons argues that socialization primarily reinforces adherence to social norms, leaving less room for individual deviation from societal expectations.