AISHA ABDULLAHI SALISU

SPS/23/MED/00114

SOCIOLOGY OF EDUCATION

ASSIGNMENT QUESTION Socialization has a process in the

Nigerian culture, what are it’s practice nd problems

What is socialization

Socialization is the process through which individuals become members

of society. It includes the processes of acquiring knowledge, skills,
attitudes, beliefs, values and behaviors necessary to function within
society. It is the is the lifelong process through which individuals learn the
norms, values, behaviors, and social skills necessary to function
effectively within their society. It is how culture is passed from one
generation to the next, shaping a person’s identity, beliefs, and roles in
their community.
Socialization begins at birth and continues throughout life.Socialization
prepares individuals to participate in a group by illustrating the
expectations of that group. Through socialization, people are taught the
language, values, and behaviors that are accepted within a group and
learn to control their natural impulses.

Socialization is essential to the development and functioning of societies

because it is through socialization that we learn the norms and
customs that hold society together. Furthermore, Socialization allows
people to interact with others and form relationships necessary to acquire
social capital and resources (Cromdall, 2006).

These sum up to three primary goals: teaching impulse control and

developing a conscience, preparing people to perform certain social roles,
and cultivating shared sources of meaning and value (Arnett, 1995).

While socialization is often thought of as something that happens to

children, it is a lifelong process. Adults need socialization when they enter
new groups or organizations.

Socialization process in the Nigerian Culture

The socialization process in Nigerian culture involves the transmission of

cultural values, norms, and practices from one generation to the next. The
following are the key aspects of process of socialization in Nigeria;

A. Family Socialization

1. Parental influence: Parents play a significant role in shaping

their children’s values, attitudes, and behaviors. They provide
guidance, support, and discipline, teaching their children
important cultural values and norms. Parents are often the
primary caregivers and role models for children, and their
influence can have a lasting impact on their children’s
development.

2. Extended family involvement: Extended family members, such

as grandparents, aunts, and uncles, also contribute to the
 socialization process. They provide additional guidance,
support, and role modeling, helping to reinforce cultural
values and traditions. Extended family members can also
share their experiences and wisdom with younger
generations, providing valuable insights and knowledge.

B. Cultural Socialization

1. Traditional practices: Nigerian culture places a strong

emphasis on traditional practices, such as initiation
ceremonies, cultural festivals, and traditional education. These
practices help to preserve cultural heritage and promote
social cohesion. Traditional practices often involve rituals,
ceremonies, and other activities that are passed down from
one generation to the next.

2. Storytelling: Elders share stories and proverbs to pass down

cultural values, traditions, and history to younger generations.
Storytelling is an important way to preserve cultural heritage
and promote social learning. Stories often contain moral
lessons, teaching children important values such as respect,
honesty, and hard work.

C. Community Socialization

1. Community involvement: Community members often come

together to celebrate festivals, share meals, and participate in
traditional ceremonies. Community involvement helps to
promote social cohesion and community solidarity. It also
provides opportunities for individuals to develop social skills,
build relationships, and feel a sense of belonging.

2. Respect for elders: Children are taught to show respect to

their elders, which is a fundamental aspect of Nigerian culture.
Respect for elders is often demonstrated through gestures
 such as bowing, using titles, and seeking guidance. This
practice helps to promote social order, discipline, and cultural
continuity.

Agents of Socialization

1. Family: Family members play a significant role in shaping an

individual’s values, attitudes, and behaviors. They provide guidance,
support, and role modeling, helping to reinforce cultural values and
norms.The family is the first agent of primary socialization. As the
principal socializing agency of the child, the family is very
important. In the home or family, the child is taught the first things
he or she needs to know.

2. The School: The school is another important agency of socialization

of the child. Children learn skills, knowledge, good morals, how to
make good use of leisure time, how to interact with other students
and staff from different parts of the country, how to solve the
problems of life, new ways of doing things and new

Forms of discipline. The socializing agents in the school include the

principal or headmaster, teachers, students, and other workers in the
school, e.g., laboratory attendants, etc.

3. Community: The community also plays a crucial role in socializing

individuals, particularly through traditional practices and cultural
events. Community members often come together to celebrate
festivals, share meals, and participate in traditional ceremonies,
promoting social cohesion and community solidarity.

4. Traditional institutions: Traditional institutions, such as chiefs and

elders, also contribute to the socialization process. They provide
guidance, support, and leadership, helping to preserve cultural
heritage and promote social order. Traditional institutions often play
a significant role in maintaining cultural traditions and promoting
community development.
Goals of Socialization

1. Cultural preservation: The socialization process aims to preserve

Nigerian culture and traditions. This involves passing down cultural
values, norms, and practices from one generation to the next, and
promoting cultural continuity.

2. Social cohesion: Socialization helps to promote social cohesion and

community solidarity. By sharing cultural values and practices,
individuals can develop a sense of belonging and connection to their
community.

3. Individual development: The socialization process also aims to

promote individual development and growth. By providing guidance,
support, and role modeling, socialization can help individuals
develop important skills, values, and attitudes that are essential for
personal and professional success.

Overall, the socialization process in Nigerian culture is complex and

multifaceted, involving various agents and practices that shape
individuals’ values, attitudes, and behaviors. By understanding the
socialization process, we can gain insights into the ways in which Nigerian
culture is preserved, promoted, and passed down from one generation to
the next.

What are the practices of Socialization in Nigeria

The practices of socialization in Nigeria is essential to the socialization

process in Nigerian culture, shaping individuals’ values, attitudes, and
behaviors, and promoting social cohesion, cultural preservation, and
community development.

Some of these practices includes;

A.Cultural Practices

1. Respect for elders: In Nigerian culture, older individuals are highly

respected and revered for their wisdom, experience, and knowledge.
Children are taught from a young age to show deference to their
elders, using titles such as “Alhaji” or “Madam” to address them.
This practice helps to promote social order, discipline, and cultural
continuity.

2. Traditional ceremonies: Nigerian culture is rich in traditional

ceremonies, such as initiation ceremonies, weddings, and festivals.
These events are an integral part of Nigerian culture, providing
opportunities for socialization, cultural expression, and community
bonding. Participants engage in various activities, such as music,
dance, and traditional rituals, which help to reinforce cultural values
and norms.

3. Storytelling: Storytelling is a vital part of Nigerian culture, used to

pass down cultural values, myths, and legends from one generation
to the next. Elders share stories and proverbs that contain moral
lessons, teaching children important values such as respect,
honesty, and hard work. This practice helps to preserve cultural
heritage and promote social learning.

B.Community Practices

1. Community involvement: Nigerians place a strong emphasis on

community involvement, participating in activities such as festivals,
ceremonies, and community development projects. This practice
helps to foster a sense of belonging, social cohesion, and collective
responsibility.

2. Hospitality: Hospitality is a core value in Nigerian culture, with

guests often being treated with great respect and generosity. Hosts
provide food, shelter, and entertainment to their guests,
 demonstrating their hospitality and kindness. This practice helps to
promote social relationships, build trust, and strengthen community
bonds.

D. Family Practices

1. Parental guidance: Parents play a significant role in shaping

their children’s values, attitudes, and behaviors in Nigerian
culture. They provide guidance, support, and discipline,
teaching their children important cultural values and norms.
This practice helps to promote social learning, moral
development, and cultural continuity.

2. Family bonding: Family bonding is an essential aspect of

Nigerian culture, with family members often spending quality
time together. This practice helps to strengthen family
relationships, promote social cohesion, and provide emotional
support.

E. Traditional Practices

1. Traditional education: Traditional education in Nigerian culture

involves learning cultural skills and knowledge from elders.
This practice helps to preserve cultural heritage, promote
social learning, and develop practical skills.

2. Cultural festivals: Cultural festivals are an integral part of

Nigerian culture, providing opportunities for socialization,
cultural expression, and community bonding. Participants
engage in various activities, such as music, dance, and
traditional rituals, which help to reinforce cultural values and
norms. This practice helps to promote cultural preservation,
social cohesion, and community development.
Problems of socialization in the Nigerian Culture

While Nigeria’s socialization system has preserved cultural identity for

generations, it faces significant challenges in the modern era. These
problems stem from rapid societal changes, globalization pressures, and
inherent contradictions within traditional systems.

The following are some of theProblems of socialization in the Nigerian

culture;

A. Cultural Challenges

1. Cultural erosion: The influence of Western culture and modernization

can lead to the erosion of traditional Nigerian cultural values and
practices. This can result in the loss of cultural identity, as younger
generations adopt more Westernized values and customs. For
example, the use of traditional languages, clothing, and music may
decline, as more modern and Westernized alternatives become
popular.

2. Loss of traditional knowledge: The younger generation may not be

interested in learning traditional skills and knowledge, leading to a
loss of cultural heritage. This can be due to a variety of factors, such
as the perceived irrelevance of traditional knowledge in modern
society or the lack of opportunities to learn from elders. As a result,
valuable cultural knowledge and skills may be lost forever.

3. Cultural conflict: The clash between traditional and modern values

can lead to cultural conflict, particularly among younger
generations. For example, traditional values may emphasize respect
for elders and authority, while modern values may prioritize
individualism and self-expression. This conflict can lead to confusion
and tension, particularly among young people who are trying to
navigate multiple cultural identities.
 B. Social Challenges

1. Social inequality: Socialization in Nigerian culture can perpetuate

social inequality, particularly in terms of gender, age, and social
status. For example, women may be socialized to take on more
domestic roles, while men are expected to be breadwinners.
Similarly, younger individuals may be expected to show deference
to their elders, perpetuating power imbalances.

2. Corruption: Corruption can be perpetuated through socialization,

with individuals learning corrupt practices and values from their
families and communities. For example, children may learn that
bribery is an acceptable way to get things done, or that nepotism is
a normal practice. This can perpetuate a culture of corruption,
undermining trust in institutions and hindering development.

3. Violence: Exposure to violence and conflict can be a problem in

some Nigerian communities, particularly in areas affected by conflict
or insecurity. This can lead to socialization into violent behaviors,
perpetuating cycles of violence and trauma. For example, children
may learn that violence is an acceptable way to resolve conflicts or
express emotions.

C. Economic Challenges

1. Poverty: Poverty can limit access to education and socialization

opportunities, perpetuating cycles of disadvantage. For example,
families living in poverty may not be able to afford education or
healthcare, limiting their children’s opportunities for social mobility.
This can perpetuate inequality and hinder economic development.

2. Limited access to education: Limited access to formal education can

hinder socialization and opportunities for social mobility. For
example, individuals who do not have access to quality education
may not develop the skills and knowledge needed to participate in
the economy or civic life. This can perpetuate cycles of
 disadvantage and limit opportunities for personal and national
development.

D. Other Challenges

1. Globalization: Globalization can lead to cultural homogenization,

threatening the uniqueness of Nigerian culture. For example, the
spread of global brands and media can lead to the adoption of
Westernized values and customs, potentially eroding traditional
cultural practices.

2. Urbanization: Urbanization can lead to changes in traditional

socialization practices, particularly in urban areas. For example, the
shift from rural to urban living can lead to changes in family
structures, social networks, and cultural practices. This can be
particularly challenging for individuals who are adapting to new
urban environments.

3. Intergenerational conflict: Differences in values and perspectives

between generations can lead to conflict and challenges in
socialization. For example, younger generations may prioritize
individualism and self-expression, while older generations may
emphasize respect for tradition and authority. This conflict can lead
to tension and misunderstanding, particularly in families and
communities.

These challenges highlight the complexities and nuances of socialization

in Nigerian culture, requiring efforts to address social and economic
inequalities, preserve cultural heritage, and promote social cohesion.

REFERENCES

1. Child Development & Socialization

- Nsamenang, A. B. (1992). Human development in cultural context: A

third world perspective. Sage Publications.
 - Ogunnaike, O. A., & Houser, R. F. (2002). Yoruba toddlers’ engagement
in errands and cognitive performance on the Yoruba Mental Subscale.
International Journal of Behavioral Development, 26(2), 145-153.

2. Cultural Practices

- Basden, G. T. (1966). Niger Ibos: A description of the primitive life,

customs and animistic beliefs, etc., of the Ibo people of Nigeria. Cass.

- Eades, J. S. (1980). The Yoruba today*. Cambridge University Press.

3. Gender & Socialization

- Amadiume, I. (1987). Male daughters, female husbands: Gender and

sex in an African society. Zed Books.

- Oyěwùmí, O. (1997). The invention of women: Making an African sense

of Western gender discourses. University of Minnesota Press.

4. Language Preservation

- Adegbija, E. (2001). Saving threatened languages in Africa: A case

study of Oko. *Journal of Multilingual and Multicultural Development,
22(2), 128-144.

- Emenanjo, E. N. (2015). Endangered languages in Nigeria: A report.

National Institute for Nigerian Languages.