Meagan Mullen
Sociology 1010 Skills Test #2
Fall Semester 2010
I have thoroughly enjoyed my Sociology 1010 class, so it was hard to pick one particular
topic I learned about that has a practical meaning for me. The three main theories Marx’s
Conflict Theory, Durkheim’s Functionalist Theory, and Mead’s Symbolic Interactionalism
Theory played a role in all chapters and with all topics. The one topic that I would say pertains to
my life right now and will continue to is Socialization. Socialization deals with who we are, and
how we got this way. It is always changing and progressing, there is not necessarily an official
beginning or end to the process of socialization. Some Sociologists may argue that there are
different stages of Socialization, but I am always wondering in my life what those stages would
be. I find this topic so interesting because everyone at some point in their life has wondered
would my life be different if?? Had I changed one decision or if I grew up in a different time
period or culture would I still be the person I am today. If my family life had been different when
I was younger how would that affect where I am and who I’ve become? There are different types
of Socialization as well, which can also affect our journey in life. Gender socialization and
socialization of age are two types, that I have seen play major roles in who people have become.
For instance when I think about the woman I am now vs. the woman I may have been in the 50’s,
it is amazing the changes that have occurred regarding gender socialization. I also think about
age socialization quite a bit now because I turned thirty this year, and I believe there are
definitely some changes in your life that are associated with age/maturity. Furthermore the topic
of Socialization is a big is very important to me right now because I have a two year old son, and
I think about how his life is being shaped on a daily business. I think about decisions I make or
have made that affect his life. I think about how he will be socialized regarding where we live,
what schools he will go to, what activities he will participate in, and how our mother and son
relationship flourish. I am also a single parent which brings other factors to light. He currently
does not have a father figure in his life. How will this affect him in the long run? What if I marry
and he then has a step dad. This topic is so interesting to me because it seems as though so many
issues factor into who we are as a person, and how we fit into society. I have learned so much in
Sociology 1010 and now have a broader perspective on myself, culture, and society.