Lecture Notes: Symbolic Interactionist Theory

Learning Outcomes

• Summarize symbolic interactionism
• Apply symbolic interactionism

Sociological Paradigm #3: Symbolic Interactionist Theory

Definition

• Symbolic Interactionism: A micro-level theory focusing on the meanings attached to human interaction (verbal and non-verbal) and symbols.
• Communication through language and symbols is key to understanding social worlds.

Key Contributors

• Charles Horton Cooley:
  • Introduced the "looking-glass self" concept in 1902.
  • Proposed that self-perception grows from social interactions.
  • Threefold process: interpret others' reactions, develop self based on interpretations.
• George Herbert Mead:
  • Considered a founder, despite not publishing work on the subject.
  • Focused on the development of self, especially in childhood.
  • Herbert Blumer, Mead's student, coined "symbolic interactionism" and outlined its premises.
  • Interaction with others and society shapes meanings.

Applications

• Example: Love for books may stem from positive interactions involving books.

Symbolic Interactionism in Practice

• Focuses on interaction patterns between individuals.
• Studies involve one-on-one interaction observations.
• Contrast with conflict theory: Focus on individual interactions rather than class differences.
• Erving Goffman:
  • Developed "dramaturgical analysis" using theater analogy for social interactions.
  • Recognized role improvisation in social interactions due to multiple daily roles.

Research Methods

• Uses qualitative research methods like in-depth interviews or participant observation.

Constructivism

• An extension of symbolic interaction theory.
• Proposes reality as cognitively constructed by humans.
• Social constructs develop through interactions and persist when widely accepted.

Criticism

• Challenges in maintaining objectivity in research.
• Criticized for narrow focus on symbolic interaction and lack of attention to broader social institutions.
• Example: Differences in police interactions based on race highlight systemic inequalities.

Glossary

• Constructivism: Reality is constructed cognitively by humans.
• Dramaturgical Analysis: Viewing society as a theatrical performance.
• Looking-glass Self: Self develops through social interactions based on perceived perceptions.
• Symbolic Interactionism: Examining individual-society relationships through communication.

References

• Includes OpenStax CNX and Steve Lyon's work on protestors.
• Khan Academy provides a video on symbolic interactionism under a standard YouTube license.