Internalization

Definition

Internalization is the process by which individuals adopt the beliefs, values, or behaviors of a group as their own, often resulting from social influence. This change is typically deep-rooted, meaning that the new beliefs or behaviors become an integral part of an individual's personal value system. Internalization plays a significant role in how people conform to social norms and accept social proof, ultimately shaping their identity and decision-making processes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Internalization can lead to long-term changes in behavior, as individuals genuinely believe in the norms or values they adopt.
2. This process often occurs in situations of ambiguity where individuals are unsure of how to behave and thus rely on others for guidance.
3. Social influence is a key factor in internalization; the more one identifies with a group, the more likely they are to internalize its values.
4. Internalization can be influenced by various factors including peer pressure, authority figures, and cultural contexts.
5. Once internalized, these beliefs or behaviors are less likely to change even when external pressures are removed.

Review Questions

• How does internalization differ from simple conformity in terms of belief adoption?
  • Internalization differs from simple conformity as it involves a deeper level of belief adoption. While conformity may lead someone to change their behavior to match a group's actions temporarily, internalization means that an individual genuinely accepts those beliefs as part of their own value system. This results in lasting changes to one's identity and decision-making processes, as opposed to just compliance with social expectations.
• What role does social proof play in the internalization process among individuals within a group?
  • Social proof serves as a powerful catalyst for internalization by providing individuals with evidence about how to behave in uncertain situations. When people observe others adopting certain beliefs or behaviors, they may feel compelled to follow suit, especially if they view those individuals as similar or credible. This influence can lead to internalization when individuals not only mimic these actions but also begin to adopt them as part of their personal belief systems.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of internalization on individual behavior and group dynamics.
  • The long-term effects of internalization can significantly shape both individual behavior and group dynamics. When beliefs and values become ingrained through internalization, individuals are likely to maintain these behaviors even without external reinforcement, fostering consistency in their actions over time. In group settings, this can strengthen cohesion as members share common values and beliefs, but it can also lead to the entrenchment of harmful norms if those values are negative. Ultimately, understanding internalization can help address how collective identities form and evolve within groups.

Related terms

Conformity: The act of aligning attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors with those of a group or social standard.

Social Proof: The psychological phenomenon where individuals look to the actions and behaviors of others to determine their own actions in uncertain situations.

Cognitive Dissonance: The mental discomfort experienced when an individual holds two or more contradictory beliefs, leading them to change their beliefs or behaviors to reduce the discomfort.