What is the term for the process by which individuals learn cultural attitudes and values?

The term for the process by which individuals learn cultural attitudes and values is socialization. This is a fundamental concept in sociology that describes how individuals acquire the norms, values, behaviors, and social skills appropriate to their society. Socialization occurs through various means, including family, education, peers, and media, and it plays a crucial role in helping individuals understand their social roles and integrate into their communities.

Socialization is not just about learning specific behaviors or skills; it encompasses the broader understanding of societal expectations and cultural practices that shape an individual's identity. This process typically begins in early childhood and continues throughout life as individuals encounter new social contexts and relationships.

The other terms, while related to social interactions and cultural understanding, do not specifically refer to this process. Cultural assimilation refers to the process by which individuals or groups adopt the culture of another group, often leading to a loss of their original culture. Role conflict describes the tension that arises when an individual faces competing demands from different social roles. Norm internalization is the process of integrating social norms into one’s personal beliefs and behaviors, but it is a part of the broader concept of socialization rather than a standalone process.