THE SELF FROM SOCIOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVES

Charles Horton Cooley

• (1864-1929)

• known for his theory “looking-glass self“ which describe how our self-image is shaped by How we think of others se us

Imagination

• We imagine how we appear to others

• We envision how others might view our actions and behaviors.

Interpretation

• We imagine how others judge us

• We consider the reactions and judgments of others towards our behaviors.

Self-feeling

• We develop our self-concept

• Based on these perceptions, we form an understanding of ourselves.

• self-concept is shaped by the feedback and responses we receive from others.

The “I“

• spontaneous aspect of the self.

• acts without considering social consequences

The “Me“

• socialized aspect shaped by social expectations and norms.

• acts based on how others expect one to behave.

Preparatory Stage (Imitation)

• starts from birth to age two (2)

• children copy others but don’t understand their actions, words, or tone of voice.

Play Stage (Taking on Roles)

• occurs from about ages three (3) to six (6)

• children engage in imaginative play

• They pretend and still do not follow the rules within organized games.

Game Stage (Understanding Multiple Roles)

• begins at age seven (7).

• Children start to comprehend and follow the rules of games, take on roles independently, and consider others’ perspectives, forming the concept of “generalized others.”