Julius has been part of a street gang in the city in which he lives since he was very young. The gang is not violent and serves as a support system for Julius. He has a good relationship with his family as well. He goes to the local college and has remained a member of the gang. Mahmoud also goes to college and has joined a fraternity. He really enjoys the fraternity and has been playing an active role. Mahmoud also has a good relationship with his family. When comparing these two subcultures, which one is more likely to be an important agent of socialization?
A) The gang will play a greater role because the members join when they are so young.
B) The fraternity will likely play a greater role because of the higher education level of its members.
C) Both the gang and the fraternity can play equally significant roles as socializing agents.
D) Both will play a relatively insignificant role because the family has been the major socializing agent.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Both the gang and the fraternity can play equally significant roles as socializing agents. While the gang may have a longer history of influence on Julius, the fraternity can also have a strong impact on Mahmoud's values, beliefs, and behaviors. The level of education of members is not necessarily a determining factor in the role of a subculture as a socializing agent. Additionally, while family is a major socializing agent, it is not the only one, and subcultures can also play significant roles in shaping individuals' identities and values.

Julius Has Been Part of a Street Gang in the City