The sociologist Robert van Krieken (2005) states that our identity is the constellation of characteristics that we can consider as part of our “self”, including the way in which we present ourselves to others. Answer this statement by exploring this idea from a socialization perspective. To support your argument, your response must include analysis of at least two specific examples related to one or both cultures and identities. A sociological approach to individuality and identity begins with the assumption that there is a reciprocal relationship between the self and society (Stryker, 1980). Because the self emerges in social interaction in the context of a complex, organized, and differentiated society, it has been argued that the self must also be complex, organized, and differentiated, reflecting the dictum that “the self reflects society” ( Stryker, 1980 ). ). Does the self reflect society or the idea of identity construction is substantiated in James's (1890) notion that there are as many different selves as there are different positions held in society and therefore different groups that respond to...
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