Introduction to Sociology: Reflecting on the Self

Vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts about the self in sociological theory, including Cooley’s Looking Glass Self, Mead’s I/Me and role-taking, and the generalized other.

Looking Glass Self

Cooley’s idea that the self develops from our social interactions and how others react to us; our self-concept is shaped by imagined evaluations of others.

Self as Social Construct

The notion that the self is formed through interactions with others and is not purely internal or innate.

I and Me (Mead)

Mead’s distinction where the I is the active, subjective self and the Me is the internalized sense of social norms and expectations.

I versus Me (Subject vs. Object)

I = the self as subject (active, doing); Me = the self as object (seen through others’ eyes and social standards).

Generalized Other

An abstract representation of the attitudes, norms, and expectations of society or a community that guide behavior.

Role-Taking (Mead)

The process of putting oneself in another’s position to understand how they would act in a given situation.

Taking on the role of the other

Mead’s phrase for adopting another person’s perspective to anticipate their actions.

Imitation (Stage)

First stage in Mead’s theory where children imitate others; learning through copying concrete actions.

Play (Stage)

Second stage in Mead’s theory where children take on a single role and imagine others’ viewpoints through pretend play.

Games (Stage)

Third stage in Mead’s theory where individuals anticipate multiple roles, understand rules, and coordinate with others.

Three Stages Move from Concrete to Abstract

Developmental progression from imitation to complex understanding of roles and society, moving from concrete actions to abstract thinking.

Theory of Mind / False Belief Test

A concept-test idea about recognizing that others can hold different beliefs or perspectives, precursor to understanding diverse viewpoints.

Self–Society Relationship

The self is shaped by social context and interactions with others; individuals and society influence each other.