Symbolic interactionism
Theoretical approach (Mead, Blumer, Goffman) focusing on how individuals create meaning through interaction, self develops through social interaction, and society is constructed through shared meanings.
Real World
When a teenager changes how they speak, dress, and act depending on whether they're with friends or family, they are unconsciously creating and responding to shared meanings — exactly what Blumer meant by symbolic interactionism in everyday life.
Exam Focus
For 'assess' questions, contrast micro-level interactionism against macro structural theories; examiners reward explicit comparisons.
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