Socialization During Childhood And Adolescence

Friends and the surrounding environment shape one’s identity and behavior. In this article, we therefore want to tell you more about the importance of socialization during childhood.

What is socialization?

Socialization means for children that you train and learn what works in different social contexts and how to adapt to society. Through socialization, they learn what is right and wrong.

One’s learning begins during the first moment of life and never ends. However, it is during early childhood that one has the greatest ability to learn.

In fact, children are born with the ability to learn and they need social stimuli. They develop bonds and friendships that will play a big role in the first years.

The impact of the social environment

We are all born with the potential to make friends. However, we also have the potential for aggression and violence. It is the environment that decides which of these two sides wins.

To learn by observing

In fact, many children learn by watching others. They observe behaviors and the consequences that occur in others.

• The family plays an important role as they constitute the children’s first social stimuli. They act as conscious or unconscious role models, and constantly give children values.
• School is important for children to learn to socialize. How teachers teach, how they treat children and their attitudes – all this will affect how children behave.
• The media is currently playing an increasing role as it contributes social information. It gives children examples of good and bad behavior via TV and other media. It is important to monitor what children are watching on television. Make sure it is appropriate, and that the programs contain values ​​that you want to teach your children.

Play

Children also learn to make friends by playing. By playing, they learn to get along with classmates and to work as a team.

Stories

Fairy tales and books are very important for teaching socialization during childhood. Kids love books. In fact, the stories often have a powerful impact on how they learn to get along with others.

Children use these stories to enhance their imagination. They also learn how the world works and how they should behave.

How to develop socialization during childhood and adolescence

Socialization is a natural process, but there are things you can do to help.

As your children make friends, they will feel more comfortable being social. It is therefore important not to be overprotective.

If you are overprotective, you will prevent them from developing their abilities and personality in an appropriate way. They do not learn from their mistakes.

Through their social relationships, children can change how they behave in accordance with the natural consequences that arise.

Parents should encourage their children to make good friends. It is also important that you give them a chance to deal with their problems themselves. They will then also develop their self-confidence.