Symbolic Interactionism Theory Flashcards

Study Notes

Symbolic Interactionism Theory

Individuals react to things based on personal meanings derived from societal interactions.
Situations are defined differently by people depending on their experiences and sense of self.
Helps explain misunderstandings that occur due to diverse interpretations of the same circumstances.

Overarching Theme of Symbolic Interactionism Theory

Meaning is fundamental to human behavior and is learned through interactions.
Humans, as social beings, develop a sense of self that motivates future actions.
Infants are influenced by the symbols and values inherent in their environment from birth.
Cultural values and behaviors are absorbed through everyday interactions.

Terms and Concepts

Important concepts include symbols, interaction, gestures, social norms, rituals, roles, salience, and identity.

Symbols

Their meanings are constructed through observation of others' usage.

Interaction

Involves social behavior among individuals that triggers communication and responses, influencing behavior adjustments.

Gestures

Non-verbal forms of communication signifying other meanings.

Expectations dictating appropriate behavior in specific contexts.

Rituals

Groups of social norms that are characteristic within family units.

Roles

Defined by a collection of norms appropriate for particular situations.

Salience

Represents the importance placed on identities based on contextual relevance.
Individuals have multiple identities organized by salience, impacting commitment and role selection.

Identity

Composed of the most salient roles that shape self-perception.

3 Key Components of Communication

Meaning, language, and thought are crucial to effective communication.

Miscommunication in Families

Family secrets create emotional distances and inhibit healing, leading to superficial interactions.
Secrets can escalate conflicts and damage relationships in more profound ways.

Belief Systems

Shape personal realities through selective perception and experience organization.
Evolve through feedback and shared experiences, foundational for relationships.
Shared beliefs sustain and define relational dynamics.

Clinicians and Belief Systems

Clinicians must recognize the emotional complexity associated with clients' belief systems.

Use of God in Triangling

God serves as a tool to alleviate tension in relationships by providing perspective.
Couples can gain neutrality and responsibility by involving a divine element in their relational dynamics.

Unhealthy Triangle Example

Using God to highlight issues rather than addressing feelings directly, like a wife using divine expectation to press for attention from her husband.

Healthy Triangle Example

Involvement of God in discussion to support relationship growth, enhancing understanding and communication.

Description

Test your knowledge of Symbolic Interactionism Theory with these flashcards. Learn how individuals interpret meanings based on their interactions with society and culture. This quiz will help you understand the nuances of personal experiences and perceptions in social contexts.

Symbolic Interactionism Theory Flashcards

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Questions and Answers

What does Symbolic Interactionism Theory suggest about people's reactions?

What influences individuals according to Symbolic Interactionism Theory?

Which of the following is a key component of communication as per Symbolic Interactionism Theory?

What are social norms?

What is a ritual?

What does salience refer to?

What is the impact of family secrets according to the theory?

What is the role of belief systems in relationships?

How is God used in triangling according to the theory?

Give an example of an unhealthy triangle.

Give an example of a healthy triangle.