The lifelong process of socialization begins shortly after birth. An infant enters an organized society, becomes part of a generation, and typically enters into a family. As the primary agents of socialization, parents play a critical role in guiding children into those gender roles deemed appropriate in a society. Functionalists point out that, as agents of socialization, schools fulfill the function of teaching recruits the values and customs of the larger society. Conflict theorists agree but add that the schools can reinforce the divisive aspects of society, especially those of social class.
Television has certain characteristics that distinguish it from the other agents of socialization.
It permits imitation and role playing but does not encourage more complex forms of learning. Issues have been raised regarding the content of television, popular music, music videos, motion pictures, and Internet Web sites. These forms of entertainment serve as powerful agents of socialization for many young people in the United States and elsewhere. Traditionally, family members have served as the primary caregivers in our culture, but in the twentieth century, the family's protective function has steadily been transferred to outside agencies such as hospitals, mental health clinics, and insurance companies. The state runs many of these agencies or licenses or regulates them.