Which term describes the ongoing process through which individuals acquire the values and structures of their society?

The term that describes the ongoing process through which individuals acquire the values and structures of their society is socialization. This process is fundamental to understanding how individuals learn the norms, values, behaviors, and social skills necessary to function effectively within their culture. Socialization typically starts from early childhood and continues throughout life, involving various agents such as family, peers, educational institutions, and media, each playing a significant role in imparting the prevailing cultural principles and societal roles to individuals.

Socialization is essential for the development of personal identities and the functioning of society as a whole. Through this process, individuals not only learn explicit cultural norms but also internalize societal expectations and practices that shape their understanding and interaction with the world around them. Ultimately, socialization helps maintain social order by perpetuating shared values and norms across generations.