Here's a breakdown:
* Meaning: Symbolic interactionism focuses on how people construct meaning through their interactions with each other. This meaning is not inherent in objects or actions but is rather created and negotiated through social processes.
* Interpretation: People interpret symbols (words, gestures, objects) differently based on their own experiences, values, and social contexts. These interpretations shape their behavior and understanding of the world.
* Social Interaction: Social interaction is the primary focus of symbolic interactionism. It's through these interactions that we develop our sense of self, create shared meanings, and build social structures.
Here are some key concepts further illustrating the emphasis on meaning and interpretation:
* The Looking-Glass Self: We develop our sense of self by imagining how others perceive us and responding to those perceptions.
* Role-Taking: We learn to understand the perspectives of others by putting ourselves in their shoes, which helps us anticipate their reactions and adapt our behavior accordingly.
* The Thomas Theorem: "If men define situations as real, they are real in their consequences." This means that our beliefs about the world, even if inaccurate, can shape our actions and have real-world effects.
In essence, symbolic interactionism views human behavior as driven by the meanings we create and the interpretations we make in our social interactions.