Final answer:
Socialization is the lifelong process where individuals integrate their own values with societal ones to form their identity. It involves various stages of self-development and adapting to new social roles, ultimately leading to a decolonized self that reflects personal growth and authenticity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The process of becoming an individual by integrating one's own values with those of parents and society is known as socialization. It is a lifelong journey where an individual adapts and integrates societal norms, expectations, and values to form their identity.
Beginning from early development stages, as highlighted by psychologists like Sigmund Freud, to more complex developmental stages such as attending college or joining a fraternity, the process involves embracing various social traditions, which collectively shape a person's identity. Self-development is crucial in situating oneself within new cultural environments without losing one's original identity. As individuals navigate through different life stages, they encounter turning points that challenge and allow for personal growth, leading to a decolonized self that is true to one's cultural experiences and personal narrative.
Whether it's a child starting kindergarten or a teenager entering college, they experience a new set of cultural behaviors and expectations to which they must adapt. This adaptation is influenced by several factors, including personal growth, the development of political ideologies, and a realization of one's role in society. Socialization not only prepares us for new social roles but helps us refine our identity throughout our entire lives.