Examine one of the two models of socialization discussed in your readings.
- Place yourself in one of the stages based on your professional development at this point in your career.
- Provide your rationale for the model selected and stage identified.
If none of the models or stages fits your experience, create your own model (or stage) and share it with the class.
In examining the models of socialization, I will focus on the Organizational Socialization Model. This model consists of three stages: anticipatory socialization, encounter, and change and acquisition.
Model Selected: Organizational Socialization Model
Anticipatory Socialization Stage
- Description: This stage occurs before entering the organization. It involves learning about the job, the organization, and the profession. It includes any prior experiences, education, or expectations one might have about their future role.
- Professional Development: At this stage, individuals are preparing for their roles by gaining relevant knowledge, skills, and attitudes.
Encounter Stage
- Description: This stage begins when an individual starts their new role. It involves learning the actual tasks, roles, and social dynamics within the organization. This stage is characterized by adjustment and adaptation to the new environment.
- Professional Development: Individuals at this stage are learning to reconcile their expectations with the reality of their roles. They are developing relationships and understanding the organizational culture.
Change and Acquisition Stage
- Description: In this stage, individuals have adapted to their roles and the organization. They become proficient and start to perform their tasks effectively. They internalize organizational values and norms.
- Professional Development: At this stage, individuals demonstrate competence and confidence in their roles. They contribute meaningfully to the organization and may start mentoring others.
My Professional Development Stage: Encounter Stage
Rationale
I place myself in the Encounter Stage of the Organizational Socialization Model. Currently, I am in the process of transitioning from a student to a practicing Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). Here are my reasons:
- Learning New Roles and Responsibilities: I am in the early stages of my career where I am learning to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios. This includes understanding the nuances of patient care, diagnosis, and management in real-world settings.
- Adjusting to Organizational Culture: As I gain clinical experience, I am becoming familiar with the culture and expectations of the healthcare organizations I work with. This involves learning the workflows, collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, and understanding the policies and procedures that govern clinical practice.
- Building Professional Relationships: I am establishing relationships with colleagues, mentors, and patients. This is crucial for effective teamwork and patient care. These interactions are helping me learn the social dynamics and communication strategies necessary for my role.
- Feedback and Adaptation: I am continuously receiving feedback from supervisors, preceptors, and peers. This feedback is invaluable for my growth and helps me adapt my practice to meet professional standards and patient needs.
Personal Model (If None Fit)
If the Organizational Socialization Model did not fit my experience, I would create a Hybrid Developmental Model with the following stages:
- Preparation and Anticipation: Prior to entering the profession, individuals prepare academically and mentally for their future roles.
- Initial Engagement: Upon entering the profession, individuals engage in hands-on learning and start to apply theoretical knowledge. They begin to understand the practical aspects of their roles.
- Integration and Adaptation: Individuals adjust to the organizational culture, build relationships, and adapt their practices based on feedback and experiences.
- Proficiency and Contribution: Individuals become proficient in their roles, contribute effectively to their organizations, and may take on additional responsibilities such as mentoring and leadership roles.
In conclusion, the Encounter Stage of the Organizational Socialization Model accurately reflects my current professional development as I transition from student to practicing PMHNP, adapting to my new role and the organizational culture.