Socialization

Socialization is the adjustment, adaptation or conforming of one’s self; for the common needs of a social or cooperative living group. One of America’s most socially active groups of people is teenagers. As people grow from childhood to adulthood they become more developed and socialized through interactions with others and outside sources. Teenagers are often influenced by their gender, family, teachers, and close group of friends, in addition to schools, churches and the media. Socialization of teens can have both positive and negative effects on them, deeming their successfulness as adults.

“Gender is so pervasive that in our society we assume it is bred into our genes…Yet gender, like culture, is a human production that depends on everyone constantly “doing gender” (West and Zimmerman 1987). People are taught to “do gender” from the day they are born, however it becomes very prevalent when teens hit puberty. Sexual feelings, desires and practices do not come into play until teens hit puberty, but by the time they hit puberty they are already fully aware of the gendered norms and expectations (Lorber 24). Heterosexuality is identified as the norm within society and those not conforming to that norm are considered different, often secluding them from standardized teen social activities. According to the SIECUS Report, “69 percent of LGBTQ [Lesbian, Gay, Bi-Sexual, Transgender, Questioning] youth reported experiencing some form of harassment or violence” (SIECUS 29:4). This statistic shows how uncomfortable teens feel in social settings because they are not recognized as part of the norm due to their sexual orientation. Gendered roles for teens are very similar to those of adults. The teenage girls generally help out around the house; cooking, cleaning and watching their younger siblings. While the teenage boys would more likely be found outside mowing the lawn or working on the family vehicles. Gender is one of the major ways that human...