What Is The Purpose Of Symbolic Interactionism
Symbolic interactionism analyzes the way people socialize by looking at the symbols they use (Carl, 2011). These symbols seem random, but that is because they are given meaning by the society that uses them. For the purpose of symbolic interactionism, symbols refer to the means used to communicate, such as language and expressions, as well as objects that have a meaning. Symbolic interactionists believe that the way people use and regard these symbols reflect their personal norms and those of their surrounding social groups (Carl, 2011). As society’s understanding of norms and beliefs change, the way they talk about things reflects this change. This is a strength of this theory because it allows sociologists to see how a culture deals with
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This theory can be applied to both individuals and large groups. An example of the exchange theory applied to an individual would be a student deciding whether or not to study for an exam. If a student believes that not studying would be too risky, he or she will study; however, if the student would benefit more from doing something other than studying, like going to work or getting enough sleep, he or she will do this instead. On a larger scale, an example of exchange theory would be a nation voting for a president who they believe will do more good than harm. The exchange theory is useful because it can give sociologists an idea of what decisions people will make and why. Yet, the problem with this theory is that not everyone weighs their options carefully before making a decision. Many people are impulsive and want instant gratification, so they don’t stop to think about how their decisions will affect them in the future. Also people have different ideas of what is a risk and what constitutes as rewarding. For one person, going to school may be rewarding and avoid the risk of not having job qualifications. Yet to another individual, an education may not be a good enough incentive to go to school and they may choose to devote their time to getting a job that does not require much skill. Because risks and
This theory can be applied to both individuals and large groups. An example of the exchange theory applied to an individual would be a student deciding whether or not to study for an exam. If a student believes that not studying would be too risky, he or she will study; however, if the student would benefit more from doing something other than studying, like going to work or getting enough sleep, he or she will do this instead. On a larger scale, an example of exchange theory would be a nation voting for a president who they believe will do more good than harm. The exchange theory is useful because it can give sociologists an idea of what decisions people will make and why. Yet, the problem with this theory is that not everyone weighs their options carefully before making a decision. Many people are impulsive and want instant gratification, so they don’t stop to think about how their decisions will affect them in the future. Also people have different ideas of what is a risk and what constitutes as rewarding. For one person, going to school may be rewarding and avoid the risk of not having job qualifications. Yet to another individual, an education may not be a good enough incentive to go to school and they may choose to devote their time to getting a job that does not require much skill. Because risks and