Tertiary Socialization: Shaping You Beyond Childhood
Tertiary socialization refers to the ongoing process of learning and adapting to new social roles and environments throughout adulthood. It's distinct from primary (family) and secondary (school/community) socialization, as it focuses on the specialized learning required for specific occupations, communities, or life stages.
Here's a breakdown:
What it entails:
* Specialized learning: This involves acquiring knowledge, skills, and behaviors specific to a particular field, profession, or social group. For example, becoming a doctor, joining a professional sports team, or migrating to a new country.
* Role adaptation: Tertiary socialization helps individuals adapt to new social roles and expectations, often requiring them to shed previous behaviors and adopt new ones. This can happen with career changes, marriage, parenthood, or even retirement.
* Continuous learning: Tertiary socialization is an ongoing process, reflecting the changing nature of work, social structures, and individual life stages. It requires ongoing adaptation and learning throughout life.
Examples of Tertiary Socialization:
* Professional training: Medical school, law school, or apprenticeship programs provide the knowledge and skills specific to a chosen profession.
* Corporate onboarding: New hires learn company culture, policies, and procedures through training programs and mentorship.
* Military service: Individuals are trained to adapt to a hierarchical and disciplined environment, learning new skills and values.
* Joining a hobby group: Individuals learn the specific rules, etiquette, and practices of a chosen hobby, like playing a musical instrument or joining a book club.
* Retirement communities: Older adults adjust to a new social context and lifestyle, developing new relationships and activities.
Importance:
* Adaptation and growth: Tertiary socialization allows individuals to adapt to changing social landscapes and thrive in new environments.
* Personal and professional development: It enables individuals to acquire new skills, knowledge, and perspectives, enhancing their career prospects and personal fulfillment.
* Social integration: It helps individuals integrate into new communities, fostering a sense of belonging and purpose.
Overall, tertiary socialization emphasizes the lifelong learning and adaptation that individuals engage in throughout adulthood, shaping their identities and experiences within various social contexts.