Section Overview
This section delves into the intricacies of societal formation and the roles of habitualization, institutionalization, and perception of reality therein, based on theories from sociologists like Peter Berger, Thomas Luckmann, W.I. Thomas, and Robert K. Merton. The concept of symbolic interactionism is explored, underscoring how our interpretations of everyday symbols shape the social construction of reality. Status, ascribed or achieved, and roles in society are then discussed, including the impact of role strain and role conflict on individuals. The section proceeds to illuminate Erving Goffman’s dramaturgical analysis and the concept of impression management, shedding light on the importance of the ‘setting’ and the influence of others’ perceptions on our self-concept, drawing on Charles Cooley’s “looking-glass self” theory. Further, the challenges of balancing multiple roles and statuses, including strategies to manage role conflict and role strain and the potential repercussions of ineffective management, are examined. Lastly, the overarching sociological view that reality is predominantly socially constructed is reinforced.
Reading Assignment for Section 3.3
Read the following subsection from our online textbook: Section 3.3: The Nature of Reality.
What You Will Learn
In this section, you’ll learn about the formation of society through habitualization and institutionalization, and explore the implications of the “Thomas theorem” and “self-fulfilling prophecy.” You’ll understand the definitions of status and role in sociology, including the differences between ascribed and achieved statuses, and the concepts of role strain and role conflict. Additionally, you’ll delve into Erving Goffman’s dramaturgy, impression management, and Charles Cooley’s “looking-glass self” theory.
Student Learning Outcomes for Section 3.3
- SLO 1: Recognize the process of societal formation through habitualization and institutionalization, and understand the implications of “Thomas theorem” and “self-fulfilling prophecy.”
- SLO 2: Grasp the definitions of status and role in sociology, and comprehend the significance of ascribed and achieved statuses and the concepts of role strain and role conflict.
- SLO 3: Understand Erving Goffman’s dramaturgy, the practice of impression management, and the relevance of Charles Cooley’s “looking-glass self” theory.
- SLO 4: Identify strategies for managing role conflict and role strain, and understand the potential impacts of ineffective management on individuals’ well-being.
- SLO 5: Appreciate the overarching sociological view that the nature of reality is, to a large extent, socially constructed.
Modification History File Created: 05/07/2023 Last Modified: 06/26/2023
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