Question

Summarize the acquisition of the self as described by George Herbert Mead and Charles Horton Cooley. Be complete in this answer and define the terms: “looking glass self,” and generalized other. (b) What is the relationship between language acquisition and the looking glass self? (c) Does the social self develop if the capacity to develop and use language is not acquired? Explain your answer.

Answer 1

According to Mead's theory, the individual's personality develops through social experience. The concept of self that comprises of self-awareness and self-image is absent at birth. The sense of self is acquired through social interactions with the family members and caretakers.

Cooley introduced the term "looking glass self" in social psychology. This refers to how the individual's self emerges from society's interpersonal interactions and the perception of others. Individuals shape their identity based on what other people perceive and confirm themselves.