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Parents, peer groups, and other socializing influences
1Department of Educational Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Madison 53706, USA. dvandell@facstaff.wisc.edu
Developmental Psychology
|November 18, 2000
Summary
This review examines J. R. Harris's group socialization theory, finding limitations in its propositions about parental influence, peer groups, and relationships. Evidence suggests multiple socialization agents are more influential on child development.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Social Psychology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- J. R. Harris's group socialization theory posits that peer groups, not parents, are the primary influence on children's psychological development.
- The theory is based on three central propositions regarding parental effects, peer influence, and the nature of dyadic relationships.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically review the evidence supporting J. R. Harris's group socialization theory.
- To identify limitations in the theory's core propositions.
- To propose an expanded research agenda for social relationship theory.
Main Methods:
- Review of empirical evidence presented by J. R. Harris (1995, 1998).
- Inclusion of additional empirical research not previously considered by Harris.
- Critical analysis of the limitations of each proposition within the group socialization theory.
Main Results:
- Significant limitations were identified in each of the three central propositions of Harris's theory.
- The evidence reviewed is not fully supportive of the theory's emphasis on peer groups as the sole primary influence.
- Findings suggest that parental behaviors and other factors may have more significant long-term effects than proposed.
Conclusions:
- J. R. Harris's group socialization theory faces serious empirical challenges.
- A model incorporating multiple socialization agents provides a more comprehensive explanation of psychological development.
- Further research is needed to definitively test the propositions of group socialization theory and social relationship theory.
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