Introduction
Political socialization is how people develop their political viewpoints, principles, and convictions. The different factors that promote socialization, including family, school, religion, and peers, impact this process, which starts in childhood and lasts throughout a person’s life (Reifen‐Tagar & Cimpian, 2022). By examining the four influences that molded my political opinions and principles, this paper seeks to explore the process of political socialization that I underwent personally. Therefore, this essay will explain how my political outlook evolved by examining the four political socialization drivers that shaped my political views and principles: family, school, religion, and peers.
Family
One of the most significant forces in political socialization is the family. It is the primary and longest-lasting source of influence on a person’s political opinions and core principles. The family’s political engagement and ideas may significantly influence a person’s political views. For instance, an individual will likely be politically active if their family is.
My family has long been politically engaged; my parents consistently cast their ballots in every election, pushing me to do the same immediately as I was old enough (Reifen‐Tagar & Cimpian, 2022). They also instructed me on staying abreast of political and social trends. When I was growing up, we frequently discussed politics at dinnertime, and my parents constantly encouraged me to pose questions and develop my perspectives (Furman et al., 2022). These ideals have influenced my political views, and I now support candidates and initiatives that share these ideals.
In light of research on how family affects political socialization, it is evident that the family is the primary source of political socialization during childhood and adolescence. Since kids are more inclined to follow their parents’ ideological opinions and morals, the family’s political opinions and habits can significantly influence a person’s political opinions (Furman et al., 2022). However, as people get older and come into contact with more political socialization factors, like peers, schools, and the media, their political beliefs and values may change and become more nuanced.
School
Since it is one of the leading institutions in charge of forming children’s values and beliefs, the school significantly impacts how people become politically socialized. Students are taught civics in school, and participation in democracy is encouraged. My school greatly influenced my personal political opinions and principles. Learners had the chance to participate in various events at my school, including debates, school elections, and debates about current affairs (Reifen‐Tagar & Cimpian, 2022). These exercises aided in the growth of analytical abilities, political awareness, and an appreciation for the value of civic participation (Furman et al., 2022).
For instance, a project requiring research and presentation on a current political issue was given to us in one of my social studies classes. Moreover, I learned about the complexity of political problems, how various groups have different viewpoints, and how to effectively communicate my opinions through this project (Furman et al., 2022). Therefore, education equips children to become informed, engaged citizens who can take part in the democratic process.
Religion
Political values and beliefs are significantly influenced by religion. An individual’s political opinions can be greatly influenced by their religious beliefs and practices, particularly regarding social issues like abortion, same-sex marriage, and capital punishment. Politics can also be affected by one’s personal religious experiences, such as going to church (Reifen‐Tagar & Cimpian, 2022). For example, I might be more inclined to oppose same-sex marriage if I participate in a church that does. On the other hand, if I go to a church that advocates for social justice, I might be more inclined to back measures meant to combat disparities.
Faith can also affect political socialization through the preaching of religious leaders. These leaders could significantly influence their followers’ political beliefs and values (Furman et al., 2022). For example, a pastor who often addresses political topics in his sermons may be able to influence the parishioners’ political viewpoints.
Peers
Peers can also shape political values and beliefs; political opinions can be significantly influenced by one’s social group, particularly during teenage years when peers become a more significant social force. One’s personal views can be affected by their peers’ political opinions and actions (Reifen‐Tagar & Cimpian, 2022). For instance, I was inspired to get involved in politics myself when I had friends who were politically involved and active.
However, I was less motivated to participate in politics when my friends had no opinion. My interactions with others have made me understand that participating in political conversations and debates can expose me to fresh viewpoints and concepts that might cause me to change my political opinions (Furman et al., 2022). As I have learned from these experiences, my peers can play a significant role in the political socialization process, influencing my political values and beliefs based on the political views and behaviors of those around me.
Conclusion
This paper examined four different socialization factors: family, school, religion, and peers. Each of these actors significantly impacts our political opinions and values. From an early age, our families may foster political ideals and ideas in us, and schools and peers can expose us to fresh viewpoints. Politics, especially social issues, can be influenced by religious values and beliefs.
I have learned how each of these influencers contributed to the formation of my political views. I know how my social experiences, schooling, and upbringing have shaped my political opinions and core beliefs. Therefore, becoming aware of our political socialization is a continuous and dynamic process that can improve how we interact with the world.
References
Furman, A., Szczepańska, D., & Maison, D. (2022). The role of family, peers, and school in political socialization: Quantitative and qualitative study of Polish young adults’ experiences. Citizenship Teaching & Learning, 17(1), 123–143. Web.
Reifen‐Tagar, M., & Cimpian, A. (2022). Political ideology in early childhood: Making the case for studying young children in political psychology. Political Psychology, 43(S1), 77–105. Web.