Internalization: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in psychological or sociocultural contexts to describe the process by which individuals adopt externally imposed norms, values, or behaviors as their own.

• The internalization of cultural values can influence one's worldview and behavior.
• Through internalization, the student began to see the importance of honesty and integrity.

Usually used in organizational or formal contexts to describe the process of including or integrating parts into a whole.

• The incorporation of new technology into the business operations was seamless.
• His incorporation of humor into the presentation made it more engaging.

Often used in scientific contexts, such as physics and biology, to describe the process of taking in a substance or adapting to information.

• The soil's absorption of water was crucial for plant growth.
• Her quick absorption of complex concepts impressed the professor.

Commonly used in contexts of cultural adaptation or learning, referring to the process of fully understanding and integrating new ideas, people, or cultures.

• The immigrant group's assimilation into the new culture was a lengthy process.
• Her assimilation of new languages demonstrated her extraordinary linguistic ability.

This term is often used in academic or technical discussions related to business strategies where a company integrates an external activity or process into its internal operations. It can refer to a broad range of activities, including production, services, or cultural norms.

• The company’s internalization of its manufacturing process helped reduce costs.
• Internalization of CSR practices is crucial for sustainable development.

Used formally and typically in discussions about business efficiency and strategy. It often implies a conscious decision to bring an external service or function back into the company, as opposed to outsourcing.

• Insourcing allows the company to maintain better quality control.
• The insourcing of logistics was necessary to meet our distribution demands.

This term is similar to 'bringing in-house' but is often used as a gerund or a verbal noun. It focuses on the process of making an external function internal within a company.

• In-housing our design team has improved collaboration.
• The in-housing of data analytics was a strategic decision to safeguard our data.

Informal and commonly used in business conversations, it describes the act of moving a function or process from an external provider to within the organization. It is suitable for everyday, practical business communications.

• We decided on bringing the IT support in-house for better control.
• By bringing marketing in-house, we can align it more with our brand values.