Introductory Sociology CLEP Prep Practice Exam

What is symbolic interactionism?

1. A perspective that examines how people interact with symbols

2. A perspective that studies the formation of social rules

3. A perspective that examines how cultural differences are formed

4. A perspective that studies the ways people respond to their environment

The correct answer is: A perspective that examines how people interact with symbols

Symbolic interactionism is a sociological perspective that focuses on the role of symbols and language in shaping social interactions and individual experiences. It explores how people interpret and assign meaning to symbols, which can include words, gestures, objects, and other elements of social interaction. This perspective is different from options B, C, and D because it specifically looks at the role of symbols, rather than social rules, cultural differences, or responses to the environment. While these factors may also be explored within symbolic interactionism, they are not the primary focus of this perspective.