Symbolic Interaction Approach Flashcards, test questions and answers
Discover flashcards, test exam answers, and assignments to help you learn more about Symbolic Interaction Approach and other subjects. Don’t miss the chance to use them for more effective college education. Use our database of questions and answers on Symbolic Interaction Approach and get quick solutions for your test.
What is Symbolic Interaction Approach?
The Symbolic Interaction Approach is an approach to understanding social behavior and interaction. This approach emphasizes the importance of symbols, language, and shared meanings in how people interact with each other. It suggests that our interpretation of events and experiences are based on symbolic meanings we give them. The Symbolic Interaction Approach has been applied to a variety of subject areas including sociology, psychology, communication studies, anthropology, education, and law.At its core, the Symbolic Interaction Approach argues that individuals construct meaning through their interactions with others by using symbols such as words or gestures to convey ideas or feelings. Individuals interpret these symbols differently depending on their own personal life experiences. For example two people who speak different languages may not be able to communicate effectively but can still understand each other’s actions if they both have similar cultural backgrounds. Even though these interactions may seem small at first glance they play a crucial role in the formation of relationships between individuals as well as larger social structures such as nations and cultures. The Symbolic Interaction Approach also acknowledges the power dynamics within society and how this influences individual behaviour. By recognizing status differences between people it is possible for us to better understand why certain behaviours occur when interacting with someone from a higher or lower class than ourselves. Furthermore it helps us appreciate what type of actions generate positive outcomes from those around us while avoiding negative ones which could damage relationships instead of strengthening them Finally another important aspect addressed by the Symbolic Interaction Approach is identity construction; how individuals create an identity based upon their interactions with others rather than just relying on pre-existing labels assigned by external forces like race or gender stereotypes.