Q: According to Mead, “We play a key role in our own socialization.”

Model Answer:

Mead theory of Socialization

According to George Herbert Mead individuals play a key role in their own socialization because they actively participate in the process of learning and internalizing the norms, values, and expectations of their society. Socialization is the process through which individuals acquire the knowledge, skills, and behaviors necessary to function effectively in their social environment.

Mead’s theory of socialization emphasizes the importance of social interaction in the development of the self. He believed that individuals learn about themselves and their roles in society through their interactions with others. This process involves taking on the perspectives of others, understanding their expectations, and adjusting one’s own behavior accordingly.

Key components to Mead’s theory of socialization:

Social interaction: Mead believed that socialization occurs primarily through social interactions with others. By engaging in conversations, observing behaviors, and participating in social activities, individuals learn the norms and values of their society.

The development of the self: According to Mead, the self is not a fixed entity but rather a social construct that develops and changes over time through social interactions. As individuals interact with others, they develop a sense of self that is shaped by the expectations and feedback they receive from others.

Role-taking: Mead argued that individuals learn about their social roles by taking on the perspectives of others. This involves imagining oneself in another person’s position and understanding their expectations and viewpoints. By doing so, individuals can better understand their own roles in society and adjust their behavior accordingly.

The generalized other: Mead introduced the concept of the “generalized other” to describe the collective expectations and attitudes of society. As individuals interact with others, they internalize these expectations and use them as a reference point for their own behavior.

In summary

According to Mead, individuals play a key role in their own socialization by actively engaging in social interactions, interpreting the expectations of others, and adjusting their behavior to fit those expectations. This process is ongoing throughout a person’s life, as they continue to learn and adapt to new social situations and roles.