How is 'symbolic interactionism' characterized?

Symbolic interactionism is characterized by its focus on the meanings individuals create and interpret through social interactions. This sociological perspective emphasizes that social reality is constructed through everyday interactions, language, and symbols. It examines how individuals communicate and interpret meaning, influencing their behavior and relationships.

For instance, when individuals engage in conversation, they assign meanings to their words and actions based on their social context and personal experiences. This process shapes their identities and how they view the world, underscoring the significance of small-scale social interactions in understanding larger social phenomena.

While other perspectives, such as structural functionalism or conflict theory, might focus on overarching structures or institutions within society, symbolic interactionism sharpens its lens on the micro-level, highlighting the subjective aspects of social life. This focus makes it distinct within the realm of sociological theory.