Question 1: Explain in your own words what the term 'Interactionism' means in sociology.

Answer: Interactionism is a sociological perspective that focuses on how individuals interact with each other in everyday situations and how these interactions influence their behavior, identities, and society as a whole.

Question 2: Describe a scenario where a person's behavior might change depending on the social situation, illustrating the concept of the 'self' being shaped through interaction.

Answer: For example, a student might behave more formally in a classroom than they do when hanging out with friends. This shows how social interactions influence their behavior and identity in different contexts.

Question 3: Identify and explain two key ideas associated with Interactionism.

Answer: Two key ideas are 'symbolic interaction,' which suggests that people use symbols and language to communicate, and 'the looking-glass self,' which means individuals develop their self-image based on how they believe others perceive them.

Question 4: Discuss how the concept of 'roles' is important in Interactionism and give an example.

Answer: In Interactionism, 'roles' refer to the expected behaviors associated with a particular social position. For example, a teacher is expected to instruct students, and students are expected to listen and participate.

Question 5: Describe how a sociologist using Interactionist theory might study a group of teenagers at a local park.

Answer: They might observe how teenagers interact with each other, the language they use, the symbols they share (like clothing or gestures), and how these interactions shape their identities and group dynamics.

Question 6: Draw a simple scene depicting two people interacting in a social setting. Use symbols or gestures to show the interaction.

Answer: A correct sketch would show two figures facing each other, perhaps one smiling and gesturing with their hand while the other listens attentively, illustrating communication and social interaction.

Question 7: Explain what a 'self-fulfilling prophecy' is and how it might relate to everyday interactions.

Answer: A 'self-fulfilling prophecy' occurs when an individual's belief about a situation causes it to come true. For example, if a teacher expects a student to perform poorly, they might treat the student differently, which could lead to the student actually performing poorly.

Question 8: Consider a situation where someone is wearing a uniform. How might this influence their interactions according to Interactionist ideas?

Answer: Wearing a uniform can signal a particular role or status, leading others to treat the person differently. For example, a police officer's uniform may command respect and authority, influencing social interactions.

Question 9: Why do Interactionists believe that society is created through everyday interactions? Provide an example.

Answer: Interactionists believe society is created through shared meanings and symbols in daily interactions. For example, the way people greet each other with a handshake creates social bonds and reinforces social norms.

Question 10: Reflect on how understanding Interactionism can help us better understand individual behavior in society.

Answer: Understanding Interactionism shows that individual behavior is shaped by social interactions and the meanings we assign to situations, helping us see how society influences personal identity and actions.