Political Socialization as a Political Science Concept, Essay Example

Political socialization refers to process in which peers, parents, family members, and others teach their progeny about particular political values, attitudes and beliefs. Youths learn these entities through a litany of avenues and locales such as school, the home, the playground, the neighborhood, etc. The process of political socialization not only aids an individual in ascertaining their group identity but also impacts how that individual perceives politics within certain contexts. The home emerges as the primary locale in which political socialization takes place. One’s demographics figures prominently in one’s belief and value system, which refers to the traits of a population that an individual lives in. Demographics include the standard of living, employment, class, and cultural background.  People who come from certain demographics often lean towards particular ideas across the political continuum. Despite the fact that there are generational differences with regards to belief systems, such mores are similar because child and parent come from the same demographic background.

Educational settings are other locales in which political socialization transpires within pedagogical contexts. Although parents are charged with the duty of imparting certain views within the political and educational arenas, schools nonetheless often grant children a broader overview of what is rendered acceptable in society at large. School athletics, clubs and other activities related to a student’s holistic education play critical roles in political socialization. Indeed, children learn fundamental political beliefs at quite a young age especially because they are exposed to individuals who come from various cultural backgrounds and demographics. Such diversity naturally foments a discussion based on conflicting perceptions on various issues.

Works Cited

Public Opinion and Political Socialization: Shaping the People’s Voice”. McGraw-Hill Higher Education. N.d. Web. 20.Feb.2013 <http://highered.mcgraw-hill.com/sites/0072481218/student_view0/chapter6/>