The aim of this research project is to evaluate and explain the use of photo-elicitation as a data collection method, when researching socialization and early childhood identity. I will reflexively describe how participants feel about their early socialization and whether it has affected how they view themselves today. This research paper will discuss the photographs chosen by the participants, how I conducted my photo-elicitation interview, and how the participants interacted with the photographs during the interview. I conclude with a critical discussion of visual methods and photographs. Additionally, for what purposes do visual methods serve as prompts in the interview process. Literature The process of socialization is where a child develops into an individual who respects the customs, laws and norms of society (Beal, 1994). Previous research has established that parents exert the primary influence on role development during the first years of life (Kaplan, 1999). Socialization is the relational process between children and their parents and its objective is to build an identity (Crespi, 2003). Gender identities and expectations regarding masculine and feminine roles are socialized within the parent-child relationship; such expectations are still visible today (Muncie et al, 1999). As children enter the education system, traditional expectations of boys and girls persist (Kaplan, 1999). interview (Harper, 2002). Word-only interviews do not evoke information, feelings and memories due to photographs, a particular form of representation...... middle of paper ...... how to use photographs (Banks, 2001 ). Early critics suggested that the use of photography as a visual method led researchers to lack methodological rigor and use photographs; either as a simple illustration or as pseudo support for ideological assertions (Rose, 2007). Photo-elicitation as a method of data collection poses certain ethical problems and provides for three types of consent (Wang, 2001). First, obtain participants’ consent to participate. Second, obtain consent from participants to use their photographs and finally consent from subjects who might be depicted in the image. Previous research shows that researchers and respondents should discuss the responsibilities of photography and respect the privacy and rights of others; as well as the increased need for written consent (Wang, 2001).