In all cultures it is the family which is the principal socializing agency of the child during infancy. Formal schooling diminishes the influence of the family. In school the child is deliberately taught skills and knowledge but much more is learnt besides via the 'hidden curriculum'. The development of mass communications has greatly extended the range of socializing agencies. Television exerts a particularly powerful influence.
Socialization continues throughout the life cycle.
Since the cultural setting into which one is born comes to influence one's behaviour it would be easy to assume that there is no room for individuality or free will in society. Others have pointed out that it is through socialization that we are able to develop a sense of self-identity, and the capacity for independent thought and action. Allen, Davina A. DA Bloomsbury Guide to Human Thought 2. Assimilation Bloomsbury Guide to Human Thought 3. Consensus Theory Bloomsbury Guide to Human Thought 4.