This research addresses the role of childhood in shaping values and the impact of the surrounding social environment during children’s developmental stages. It argues that socialization plays a crucial role in developing children’s values, as they learn from observing and interacting with family, school, media, and peers. These factors create a rich environment that contributes to forming the child’s concepts of respect, honesty, and commitment.
The research emphasizes the importance of promoting positive values during childhood, as these values help children build positive relationships and achieve future success. However, the socialization of values faces significant challenges due to rapid social and technological changes. The abundance of information and the influence of media complicate the proper guidance of children towards positive values.
Additionally, the research addresses the misconceptions associated with the metaphor of “planting values” in childhood, indicating that this process is not as straightforward as often believed. It highlights a set of illusions related to this metaphor, such as the illusion of a harmonious society and the illusion of the passive child, emphasizing that socialization is a complex process that requires dismantling these illusions for a better understanding of how values are shaped. Ultimately, the research underscores the need to adapt socialization methods to fit a changing and complex world.
Keywords: Childhood, Upbringing, Values, Environment
Dr. Ahlam Rashid ALQASIMI: Assistant Professor of Sociology, Department of Social Sciences, College of Arts, University of Bahrain, Kingdom of BAHRAIN