Indoctrination: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is often used to describe the process of teaching someone to accept a set of beliefs uncritically. It is commonly applied in educational or religious contexts but isn't necessarily negative.

• The children received a strict indoctrination into the community's religious beliefs.
• Indoctrination sessions were held to instill loyalty to the organization.

Used to describe a coercive method of changing someone's beliefs or attitudes, often through manipulation and psychological pressure. This word has a strong negative connotation.

• The hostages were subjected to brainwashing during their captivity.
• The cult leader was accused of brainwashing his followers.

Often used to describe biased or misleading information disseminated to promote a particular political cause or point of view. This term usually carries a negative connotation.

• The regime used propaganda to sway public opinion in its favor.
• The wartime government released propaganda to boost morale.

This term is usually used in psychology and behavioral science to describe the process of training or adapting behavior through reinforcement or punishment. It does not carry a negative connotation.

• The dog was trained through conditioning to respond to commands.
• Classical conditioning was used to teach the subject a new response to a stimulus.

Indoctrination is used when someone is being taught to accept a set of beliefs uncritically. It usually has a negative connotation, as it implies a manipulative or forceful teaching process.

• The totalitarian regime used indoctrination to ensure that the citizens adopted their ideology.
• Studies have shown how careful indoctrination can deeply affect young minds.

Teaching is the act of imparting knowledge or skills to someone. It can refer to formal education in schools or informal learning at home. It generally carries a positive connotation and implies a supportive, educational environment.

• Her teaching methods are innovative and engaging.
• Teaching children to read is a rewarding experience.

Instruction refers to the process of teaching or providing knowledge, usually in an educational or training context. It is neutral and doesn't carry a negative connotation.

• She provided clear instructions on how to complete the project.
• The online course offered detailed instruction in web development.

Persuasion involves convincing someone to do or believe something through reasoning or argument. It can be used in both positive and negative contexts, depending on the intent.

• After much persuasion, he finally agreed to join the club.
• The ad campaign was designed to use persuasive techniques to attract more customers.