This highly regarded handbook remains the leading reference and advanced text on socialization. Foremost authorities review the breadth of current knowledge on socialization processes across the life span. Extensively revised with the latest theory and research, the second edition reflects exciting advances in genetics, biological and hormonal regulatory systems, and brain research. Contributors present cutting-edge theories and findings pertaining to family, peer, school, community, media, and other influences on individual development. Three themes guide the book: the interdependence of biology and experience, the bidirectionality of socialization processes, and the many contributing factors that interact to produce multiple socialization processes and pathways.

New to This Edition

• Revised structure reflects the diversity of socializing relationships in multiple contexts from infancy through adulthood.
• Sections on biology and culture provide a dual framework and include new chapters on cross-cultural research, genetics, chronic family stress, and neuroscience.
• Chapters on adolescence, new-employee organizational socialization, and cultivating the moral personality.