SOCIOLOGY

Theories of Sociology and Sociology

Theories of Sociology and Sociology

Part A. Social Learning Theories in Psychology

Symbolic Interactionist Theory

Social psychology approach emphasizes on Symbolic Interactionist theory as one of the most important sociological paradigm that is based on the philosophical theories of nominalist pragmatism and behaviorism. The Symbolic Interactionist theory was proposed by George Herbert Mead that addresses the significance of culture in shaping human minds along with emphasizing upon the importance of communication between individuals spreading from the collective, societal level to the individual levels. This configures the initial premise of the theory: the individual, as a social, living in interaction with other individuals and / or social groups, and it is these processes of interaction which contribute decisively to shaping the personality of the individual (Betz, Judkins, 1975, p. 228).

According to George Mead, the most significant theorist of this movement, there are some ongoing social processes that precede the mind and the self. This cultivates an ability to see oneself as a social object that dictates how human beings think and act under different circumstances. According to him, the basic unit of analysis is the “social event” and the basic mechanism is configured as a “gesture”, especially the vocal gesture that allows us to use humans as significant symbols that lead to the development of language and communication abilities.

Attachment Theory

The attachment theory is another important theory in social learning where John Bowlby demonstrates how a child develops emotional attachment to the person (or guardian) who acts a “care-giver” for him or her. When a child comes in closer contact with the parent or guardians who take “care” of him or her, he seeks their proximity and develops attachment to the person. The infants, normally within the age bracket of six months to two years are attracted and attached to the people who are around them, and those who act as care-givers on a consistent basis. Towards the end of this period, children begin to use attachment figures (that is to say, the familiar surroundings) as a secure base from which they will explore the world, and to whom they know that 'they can return (Devall, 1973, p. 59).

This theory provides a strong reasoning for the emotional and physical attachment of a child and his mother as the child matures in life. The child, throughout his infancy, finds his mother very close, hence forming a close relationship with her. If the child has received unconditional acceptance and care in a close relationship with the mother in a stable manner, it may have a tranquility base, and develop a positive image about worldly relationships and the world in general. Bowlby's work was influenced by Konrad Lorenz (1903-1989) who in his studies with geese and ducks in the 50's, revealed that the birds could develop a strong bond with the mother (instinct theory) (American Psychological Association, 2001, p. 45-89). However, it was Harry Harlow (1905-1981) with his experiments with monkeys, and his discovery of the universal need contacts who unfalteringly routed ...