Why is family considered the greatest influence on socialisation?

Family is considered the greatest influence on socialisation primarily because they shape basic values and beliefs. From the very early stages of life, families introduce children to norms, values, and social expectations that are foundational to their understanding of the world. These values may include principles such as respect, responsibility, honesty, and cultural traditions.

The family environment plays a pivotal role in instilling these values through daily interactions, communication styles, and the behaviors they model. Children observe and mimic their family members, and this learning process forms the bedrock of their personal identity and social behavior.

Other aspects, such as financial support or a focus on academic success, while important, do not capture the broader and deeper influence that families have on individual belief systems and overall socialisation. The limiting of interactions or a concentration solely on certain achievements can actually stem from the values families instill, rather than being primary influences themselves. Thus, the family's role in shaping fundamental beliefs and values is crucial to understanding why they are the greatest influence on socialisation.