aqa sociology social action theory notes

Symbolic Interactionism

 Human behavior is not determined by social structures, but by consciousness.
 Society is created through actions and interactions.
 We assign meaning to things by attaching symbols.
 We interpret others’ meanings by ‘taking the role of the other’ (empathizing with
others).
o Example: Children imitate parents to understand how they are viewed.
 Shared symbols and language guide how we act according to others' expectations.
 Our actions are shaped by the meanings we attribute to the world.

Criticisms:

 Overemphasizes individual agency and overlooks the influence of social structures.
 Can neglect larger societal factors like class, race, and gender in shaping interactions.
 Lacks attention to material and economic conditions.