Focal socialisation agency
Encyclopedia
Focal socialisation agency (or focal socialization agency) in sociology
is the name given to the agency
which is most influential in process of socialisation upon an individual. Typically the first focal socialisation agency is the family
but is usually succeeded in this role by the education system
upon the entering of education.
Sociology
Sociology is the study of society. It is a social science—a term with which it is sometimes synonymous—which uses various methods of empirical investigation and critical analysis to develop a body of knowledge about human social activity...
is the name given to the agency
Agency (sociology)
In the social sciences, agency refers to the capacity of individuals to act independently and to make their own free choices. By contrast, "Structure" refers to the factors of influence that determine or limit an agent and his or her decisions...
which is most influential in process of socialisation upon an individual. Typically the first focal socialisation agency is the family
Sociology of the family
The Sociology of the family examines the family, as an institution and a unit of socialisation, through various sociological perspectives, particularly with regard to the relationship between the nuclear family and industrial capitalism, and the distinct gender roles and concepts of childhood which...
but is usually succeeded in this role by the education system
Sociology of education
The sociology of education is the study of how public institutions and individual experiences affect education and its outcomes. It is most concerned with the public schooling systems of modern industrial societies, including the expansion of higher, further, adult, and continuing...
upon the entering of education.