group socialization

1. the process of interaction between an individual and a group that begins when he or she first considers joining the group and ends when he or she leaves it. The individual learns to adjust to various group norms and behave in a manner acceptable to group members.

2. the process by which an individual, from infancy onward, acquires social skills, beliefs, values, and behaviors through interaction with and observation of others in a group context.

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Psychology term of the day

May 8th 2024

sedative, hypnotic, and anxiolytic drug

any of a group of CNS depressants that have been developed for therapeutic use because of their calming effect (i.e., sedative) and ability to induce sleep (i.e., hypnotic) and reduce anxiety (i.e., anxiolytic). They include the barbiturates, meprobamate, and the benzodiazepines. At low doses, these drugs are prescribed for daytime use to reduce anxiety; at higher doses, many of the same drugs are prescribed as sleeping pills. Although efficacious when used sparingly, over the long term all induce marked tolerance, and cessation of use can precipitate potentially life-threatening withdrawal phenomena. Acute abuse can yield dangerous intoxication effects, and chronic abuse can cause a range of serious, irreversible conditions.