Internaliset

Internaliset is a Swedish verb that translates to "internalize" in English. It describes the process by which an individual takes in and accepts external ideas, values, beliefs, or norms, making them a part of their own thinking, behavior, or personality. This process can be conscious or unconscious, gradual or rapid.

When someone internalizes something, it means that it is no longer perceived as an external imposition but rather as an intrinsic part of their own understanding or way of being. For example, a child might internalize social norms regarding politeness through repeated exposure and reinforcement from their parents and society. Similarly, a student might internalize a particular scientific theory, accepting its principles as fundamental to their understanding of the natural world.

The concept of internalization is relevant in various fields, including psychology, sociology, and education. In psychology, it's often linked to the development of the self and moral reasoning. In sociology, it helps explain how societies maintain order and transmit culture across generations. In education, it refers to the process of students truly understanding and integrating knowledge, rather than just memorizing it. The extent to which something is internalized can influence an individual's attitudes, decisions, and actions.