A teenager begins to imitate the speech and clothing style of a famous…
2026
A teenager begins to imitate the speech and clothing style of a famous celebrity frequently seen on television. Which agency of socialization is most directly illustrated by this behaviour?
Answer: D. Imitation through mass media — CONCEPTSocialization is the process through which people learn the norms, values, roles, and patterns of behaviour used in society. Its agencies include…
- A.
Peer-group influence
- B.
Formal education
- C.
Religious instruction
- D.
Imitation through mass media
Attempted by 4 students.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
CONCEPT
Socialization is the process through which people learn the norms, values, roles, and patterns of behaviour used in society. Its agencies include family, peer groups, educational institutions, religious institutions, and mass media. Each agency influences behaviour through a different channel.
APPLICATION
The teenager copies a celebrity encountered repeatedly on television. The model is supplied by television, so the immediate channel of learning is mass media and the mechanism is imitation. Therefore, the behaviour illustrates imitation through mass media.
CONTRAST
Peer-group influence arises through interaction with people of similar age or status.
Formal education operates through organized teaching in schools or similar institutions.
Religious instruction transmits beliefs and practices through religious institutions.
Imitation through mass media occurs when media figures or portrayals become models for speech, dress, or conduct.
RESULT
The agency shown is imitation through mass media.