Symbolic Interactionism

Paper Summary:

This paper analyses George Herbert Mead's concepts of meaning, language, thought and self and how they provide a basis to understanding the complex, yet significant act of communication. It also discusses Herbert Blumer's concept of symbolic interactionism and many of his assertions associated with it. The paper then discusses how these apply to every day scenarios.

From the Paper:

"Blumer's final concept is that of the self. Specifically that "we paint our self-portrait with brush strokes that come from taking the role of the other" (Griffin 2003). In other words, the idea that our view of ourself is constructed by our interaction with others. Consequently, this shows that the self is a function of language, as without talk, or without a community to talk to, there can be no understanding of our self. Mead also believes that there are two aspects of self, the 'I' and the 'me'. 'I' being the irrational and unpredictable, and the 'me' is the thought of being viewed as an object, the image of self that is created by interaction with others (Griffin 2003). For example, if I were to accidentally hurt myself during a silent Church service, the 'I' part of self may boisterously cry out in pain. As a result, the 'me' aspect of self may think 'boy I must look like an idiot!' The unpredictable voice of 'I' has led to the reflective hear of 'me' through the viewpoint of others."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Griffen, E.M. (2003) Symbolic Interactionism of George Herbert Mead (Chapter 4) In A First Look at Communication Theory (5th ed.) (pp. 55-65). Boston: McGraw Hill
• Harter, S. (1999) Symbolic Interactionism Revisited: Potential Liabilities for the Self Constructed in the Crucible of Interpersonal Relationships Merrill-Palmer Quarterly 45, 677. Retrieved March 16, 2007, from Expanded Academic ASAP database.
• Martin, J.L. and Yeung, K.T. (2003) The Looking Glass Self: An empirical Test and Elaboration Social Forces, 81, 843(37). Retrieved March 19, 2007, from Expanded Academic ASAP database.
• Turner, L.H. and West, R. (2007) Symbolic Interaction Theory Based on the Research of George Herbert Mead (Chapter 5) In Introducing Communication Theory Analysis and Application (3rd ed.) (pp. 93-109). New York: McGraw Hill

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