Question

Define socialization and identify at least one goal of the socialization process. Next, identify and describe the three stages of socialization. Then,for the first socialization stage only, identify and describe two useful organizational practices that may facilitate this stage of the socialization process. Finally, do you believe the socialization process may be more important in organizations that have a mechanistic structure or organic structure?

Answer 1

Socialization can be defined as the activity of internalizing the different norms and philosophies of the given society. This is the process that includes both the learning and teaching and therefore it is the manner in which cultural and social continuity is achieved.

One of the goals of socialization is to make the individual ready to get involved or participate with society by learning social norms and expectations.

The three stages of socialization are as below=

• Stage #1: Anticipatory= this is the process that initiates before the individual becomes the part of the society or group and by analyzing the society or group the person tries to anticipate the norms to be followed in that group
• Stage #2: Encounter.= This is when the person becomes the part of the society or the group and he starts to learn the manner in which the things need to be done, the different norms and standards
• Stage #3: Metamorphosis= This is when the person starts to have an understanding of the group norms and he starts to feel comfortable within the group

In the first step, the organization can provide insight about the organizational culture and work culture in the firm that can prepare the individual to understand the type of working environment he can expect. The other method will be to ask the employee to research on the internet and through other resources about the industry. An induction program and little briefing about the nature of the organization will also be useful.

I think the organizations with the organic structure will have a greater significance of the socialization as in these organizations the processes and the norms keep on changing