Step 1: Visual Representation

Create a visual representation of your socialization journey.

  • Choose a specific social identity you want to explore and reflect upon. 
  • Make a paper or digital timeline map:
    • Write the social identity you are mapping at the top of the paper.  
    • Draw a line straight across the paper.  
    • Cut the line into four or five equal sections.  
    • Label each section based on age ranges (e.g., 0-5, 6-10, 11-15, 16 to present) or school life stages (e.g., preschool, elementary, middle/junior high, high school, college). 
  • Map your experiences using the cycle of socialization chart as a reference.  

Questions that students should answer directly on their timeline map:

  • What messages or beliefs were you taught about your social identity? 
  • Where did these messages come from? (Parents, family members, teachers, religious organizations, friends, media, society, etc.) 
  • How were these messages reinforced?

Step 2:  Reflection

Write a reflective response that addresses the following prompts (200 words): 

  • How did these messages influence your perception of yourself and others? 
  • Reflect on specific behaviors that were encouraged, rewarded, supported, discouraged, unsupported, or punished concerning your social identity.