Family Socialization in a Changing World
Mohammad Maani and Salah Al-Louzi, Department of Social Work, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan.
Abstract
Modern family experienced many rapid social changes that led into changing many of its structural characteristics. Consequently, the family lost, partially or completely, some of its functions for other social institutions. Hence, contemporary nuclear family and its members face many challenges and urgent difficulties. As a result, this study proposes an integrative approach for the process of socialization upon new circumstances witnessed by contemporary family.
The proposed model consists of three components, which include socialization institutions and its systems, individual’s characteristics to face challenges, and different psychosocial needs of the family and its members. Elements of the socialization process include four components: social, economic, and cultural factors; individual’s natural abilities; emotional state; and human behavior, including needs and preferences. This proposed model may assist social and psychological workers working with families, which may help in supporting and empowering the family and its members.
Key Words: Socialization, Social Change, Family Functions, Challenges.