Final answer:
Socialization is the lifelong process of internalizing society's norms, values, and expectations to function effectively within it, ensuring cultural continuity across generations. It encompasses both direct interactions with various social groups and the influence of societal institutions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Socialization refers to the life-long process by which individuals internalize the values, beliefs, and norms of a given society and learn to function as members of that society. This process includes direct interactions with social groups such as families and peers, and is influenced by formal and informal institutions like schools, workplaces, and the media which communicate and reinforce cultural norms and values.
Through socialization, individuals learn about societal expectations, and how to be proficient members of a society. It is critical for both individuals and the survival of the society itself, as it ensures the transmission of culture to new members thereby perpetuating its existence. For example, in the United States, teaching cultural values related to democracy to the younger generations is vital for the continuation of its societal way of life.
Moreover, socialization is not solely about socializing or interacting with others, but rather it is a structured process of acculturation and learning. It is distinct from political socialization, which is more focused on the development of political ideology.