Socialisation in Australia

Originally published in 1978, Socialisation in Australia looks at the process of socialisation, which has a pervasive effect upon every individual and considerable relevance to the continued functioning of society and the many groups within it. An understanding of this process which has attracted the attention of researchers in several disciplines, is important not only to theorists but to teachers, counsellors, social workers and other practitioners who are likely, in their professional capacity, to take an active part in the socialisation of individuals. Sixteen distinguished social scientists – anthropologists, sociologists, psychologists, political scientists, and educationists – here approach the subject from their own distinctive points of view. In Part I discussion centres on some of the units of Australian society – the community, school, ethnic groups, aborigines, social class, religious groups, the family, mass media, government and the political sector. In Part II some outcomes are explored – language, sex roles, religious socialisation, political socialisation, and childhood and adolescence. Each contribution is closely related to the research work already carried out in Australia and elsewhere, and at the same time indicate lines for future research. Today it can be read in its historical context.