Mead's Theory of Social Self: Emergence, Reflexivity, and Development

Mead's Theory of Social Self

Mead's theory of social self is based on the perspective that self emerges from social interactions, such as observing and interacting with others, and responding to others, among other factors.

The Social Aspect of Self

The social aspect of self is an important distinction because other sociologists of Mead's time believed that the self was based solely on biological factors and inherited traits.

Development of Self

Mead believed that the self is not present from birth but is developed over time through experiences and activities.

Reflexivity in Mead's Theory

Reflexivity plays a fundamental role in Mead's theory of mind. Vocal gestures allow individuals to hear their own gestures in the same way that others hear them. Vocal gestures also enable one to speak to oneself when others are not present.

Role of Play in Self Development

Play develops self by allowing individuals to take on different roles and express expectations of others. It helps develop self-consciousness through role-playing, enabling individuals to internalize the perspective of others and understand how others feel about themselves in different situations.

Role of Games in Self Development

Games develop self by teaching individuals to understand and adhere to the rules of the activity. Self is developed by recognizing that there are rules one must abide by in order to win the game.

The Me and the I

The Me represents the socialized aspect of the individual, including learned behaviors, attitudes, and expectations of others and society. It is sometimes referred to as the generalized other. The Me is considered a phase of the self that is in the past.

The I, on the other hand, represents the present and future phase of the self. It reflects the individual's identity based on their response to the Me.

Existence in Community and Individual Consciousness

For Mead, existence in the community comes before individual consciousness. One must first participate in different social positions within society and only then can they use that experience to take the perspective of others.