Identify and explain in detail three stages of socialization throughout lifespan

Socialization is a lifelong process where an individual learns the appropriate social norms, attitudes, behaviors, and skills necessary to function effectively in society. This process can be divided into three main stages: primary, secondary, and tertiary socialization.

1. Primary Socialization: This is the first and most crucial stage of socialization and it occurs during childhood. In this stage, children learn about societal norms and expectations from their immediate family and those closest to them. They learn basic behaviors, values, beliefs, and language that shape their world view. For example, children learn to communicate, to respect others, to love, to express their feelings, etc. This stage lays the foundation for all future socialization.

2. Secondary Socialization: This stage occurs during adolescence and early adulthood. Here, individuals learn the appropriate behavior within smaller sections of the larger society. This includes socialization in school, where one learns how to behave in a classroom setting, and in the workplace, where one learns the norms and expectations of professional behavior. This stage also includes socialization processes associated with adolescent activities, such as participating in youth groups, learning roles and statuses, and beginning to understand and organize one's own personal beliefs and values.

3. Tertiary Socialization: This stage refers to the socialization that takes place throughout an individual's adult life. In this stage, individuals learn new norms and values that were not taught in childhood or adolescence because they are relevant to new situations in adulthood. This could include becoming a parent and learning the norms and expectations associated with that role, or entering retirement and learning the new roles and norms associated with this stage of life.

In conclusion, socialization is a critical process that helps individuals learn how to function within their society. It begins in childhood and continues throughout life, allowing individuals to learn and adapt to new roles and situations.