1. Symbolic Interactionism
Micro Sociological Theory

2. Looks at individuals’ everyday behavior through the communication of knowledge, ideas, beliefs, and attitudes Focus is on the PROCESS and keeps the PERSON the center of analysis

3. Herbert Blumer Coined the term symbolic interactionism
American Sociologist

4. Interaction
Action in which people take each other into account in their own behavior
Therefore
We act differently in different social settings
We continuously adjust our behavior, including our body language as we interact
Example: A Professor will act differently
To her husband
To her kids
To a colleague in the hall
To her class

5. This means that people do NOT simply react to each other but INTERACT with each other

6. Basics of Symbolic Interactionism
Humans behave according to the meanings that things and events have for them.
Individual meanings of things and events stem from interaction with others.
Meanings entail interpretation rather than simple literal compliance with standardized expectations

7. Society is Socially constructed through human INTERPRETATION

8. Civil Inattention
Acting like we do not notice (especially hear or see) something when we actually do

9. Questions?