Internalise

Internalise refers to the process by which an individual adopts and makes an idea, belief, or value their own. It goes beyond mere intellectual understanding; it involves incorporating these concepts into one's personal framework of thinking and behaving. This process can occur consciously or unconsciously, through various mechanisms such as observation, education, social interaction, and personal experience.

When something is internalised, it becomes a part of a person's identity and influences their judgments, decisions, and actions. For example, a child who internalises the value of honesty is likely to be truthful even when it is difficult. Similarly, societal norms and cultural values are often internalised by individuals, shaping their understanding of right and wrong and their interactions with others. This process is crucial for personal development, socialisation, and the formation of a stable self-concept. It allows individuals to navigate the world with a consistent set of principles and to contribute to the collective understanding of a group or society. The depth of internalisation can vary, ranging from superficial acceptance to deep-seated conviction.