Symbolic Interactionism

Symbolic Interactionism

Founders (GMHB)

  • George Mead

  • Herbert Blumer

Overview

  • Focuses on micro-level interactions between individuals.

  • Examines meanings attached to symbols in social contexts.

Health and Illness

  • Individuals create meanings around health and illness through interactions.

  • Social construction of illness influences definitions of health and sickness.

Key Aspects

  1. Interpretation of Health

    • How people define and interpret their health.

    • Influence on behavior and interactions.

  2. Negotiations of Illness

    • Examination of experiences of illness.

    • Communication between medical professionals and patients.

    • Construction and dissemination of medical knowledge.

  3. Societal Influence

    • How societal norms shape perceptions of health and illness.

    • Interaction between patient and healthcare provider in negotiating treatment plans.