Question

Peter finds that he always reacts differently to correction from his father than from his mother. what might a symbolic interactionist studying families make of this situation?
a. peter needs professional counseling.
b. peter plays different roles with his father and mother.
c. peter needs a sibling.
d. peter's lack of respect for his mother means he'll probably get divorced when he's older.

Answer 1

B - Peter plays different roles with his father and mother. Symbolic interactionists study the socially constructed symbolic meanings that underly behavior in order to analyze and interpret the behavior itself. Thus, behavior can be interpreted based on the subjective meaning that we ascribe to it and its symbolism to us, rather than having an objective reality. The different roles that Peter plays with his mother and father would change and alter the symbolism behind those relationships and behaviors.