ADVERTISEMENTS:
The ultimate aim of effective social development in status-hood is the attainment of social maturity. A social mature adult shows a few important characteristics. He is able to adapt himself successfully to his fellowmen and to adapt is fellowmen to himself. It includes such behavioural forms as group compatibility, kindness and sympathy, fair play emotional adjustability, courtesy and politeness, dependability, self-confidence, co-operation, leadership and cheerfulness.
Group compatibility or compatibility is beautifully explained by Huslork when she says that a socially mature individual conforms not so much because, he approves of existing patterns if behaviour or because he is afraid not to conform but neither because he realizes that each individual must be willing to fit his individual wishes into the pattern approved by the group as a whole.
A socially mature individual should be able to make judgements, decisions and take proper action in face of problems and critical issues. He should be able to participate in cooperative activities without conflict with others. He is capable of taking responsibility for his own actions, and of making and keeping a large number of friends. He has a well-balanced and objective estimate of himself and can take on himself different roles in accordance with the demand of different situations. He identifies with the interests of the group and puts the group benefits before his selfish gains.