Chapter 2

Question 1

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Answer 1

At the end of the Chapter, the learners should be able to:
•Discuss the self from sociological perspective and
•Draw the implications of these sociological concepts to the development of the self.

Question 2

Socialization

Answer 2

Socialization is the whole and lifetime process by which people learn the values, attitudes and behaviors that are appropriate and expected by their culture and community. According to George Herbert Mead, Margaret Mead and Ruth Benedict, Clifford James Geertz, and Charles Cooley, the concept of the self is developed through cultural and socialization process.

Question 3

George Herbert Mead

Answer 3

Believes that the self is not there at birth. This means that the self is not based on inherited traits and other biological factors. Rather, the self is developed over time from social experiences and activities.

Example sentence: The development of the self according to George Herbert Mead is a result of social interactions.

Question 4

Charles Cooley

Answer 4

Explains how we develop our sense of self or self-image by his looking-glass self theory. Based on this theory, we learn to view ourselves as we think others view us.

Additional information: The looking glass self theory consists of three steps for the formation of self-image.

Question 5

Margaret Mead and Ruth Benedict

Answer 5

They argued that the personality or the self is dependent on the cultural practices and socialization process of a certain group. Thus studying a person’s personality can already provide us an idea of his or her cultural background and social upbringing and vice versa.

Example sentence: Margaret Mead and Ruth Benedict emphasized the impact of culture on personal development.

Question 6

Clifford James Geertz

Answer 6

Geertz argued that the self is not an isolated, intrinsic entity but is shaped and constructed through cultural contexts. He believed that individuals understand themselves and their identity through the symbols, practices, and narratives provided by their culture.

Additional information: Geertz’s perspective highlights the influence of culture on self-identity.