Q. Explain G.H. Mead’s idea of development of ‘self’ through the ‘generalised other’.

Model Answer:

G.H. Mead’s Development of ‘Self’ Through the ‘Generalized Other’

G.H. Mead’s concept of the development of ‘self’ through the ‘generalized other’ is a cornerstone of symbolic interactionism, emphasizing the social nature of self-formation.

Mead argued that the self emerges through social interaction and role-taking. The process involves two key stages:

1. Play Stage: Children imitate specific roles (e.g., playing “doctor” or “teacher”), learning to take on perspectives of individual others.

2. Game Stage: Individuals internalize multiple roles simultaneously, developing the concept of the “generalized other” – the organized attitudes of the entire social group.

The “generalized other” represents societal norms, expectations, and shared meanings. Through this concept, individuals:

• Anticipate others’ responses to their actions
• Evaluate their behavior from society’s viewpoint
• Develop self-awareness and self-regulation

For example, a student learns to behave appropriately in class by internalizing the expectations of teachers, peers, and the education system as a whole.

Mead’s theory highlights the reciprocal relationship between individual and society. The self is not innate but socially constructed through symbolic communication and role-taking within the community.