What it means
How people learn to fit into a group. Children learn the rules and roles of their family and culture through play, school and contact with others. Professional socialization is how a student takes on the values, ethics and identity of a nurse. The word is also used for time spent with others, which helps protect older adults and people with mental illness from loneliness and isolation.
For the nurse
Encourage contact with family, friends and group activities for clients at risk of isolation, such as older adults living alone or clients in long-term care.
Related terms
growth and development
The changes in body size (growth) and in skills and abilities (development) that happen across a person's life.
social isolation
Having little contact with other people, or being cut off from family, friends and community.