What does internalisation mean?
Internalisation refers to the process of making something internal or a part of one's own psyche or personality. This term is commonly used in psychology to describe how individuals incorporate external values, attitudes, or behaviors into their own personality, and in business to describe how companies adopt and integrate new practices or technologies. Internalisation can be a positive process of personal growth or organizational improvement, leading to increased self-awareness, better decision-making, and more effective operations. The term is often used interchangeably with internalization, and both spellings are accepted in different regional dialects.
nounThe process of internalizing something, such as a behavior, attitude, or value, making it a part of one's own psyche or personality.
- The process of making something internal or a part of one's own psyche.
- In psychology, the process of incorporating external values, attitudes, or behaviors into one's own personality.
"The child's internalisation of her parents' values shaped her moral compass."
"The company's internalisation of industry best practices improved their operations."
"The student's internalisation of mathematical concepts enabled her to solve complex problems."
The plural form is used when referring to multiple instances or processes of internalisation.
"The study examined the internalisations of different cultural values among international students."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of internalisation
The term internalisation originates from the Latin words 'internus,' meaning 'inward' or 'internal,' and the suffix '-isation,' which forms a noun indicating a process or action. The word has been used in English since the 17th century, initially in philosophical and psychological contexts to describe the process of making something internal or a part of one's own mind. Over time, the term has been adopted in various fields, including business, education, and sociology, to describe the process of internalizing external factors.
How internalisation is actually used
This term is commonly used in psychology, education, and business contexts. It has a neutral connotation and is often used to describe a positive process of personal growth or organizational improvement.