A young child is repeatedly given negative messages about clumsiness and stupidity, and the parents even express regret that the child was born. As a result, the child develops a negative self-concept corresponding to these parental messages. What sociological concept best captures this process?
A) secondary socialization
B) the looking-glass self
C) assuming social statuses
D) asocial roles

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The concept of the "looking-glass self" by Charles Horton Cooley explains how an individual's self-concept develops through interpersonal interactions and the perceptions of others. In this scenario, the child's negative self-concept is shaped by the parents' negative messages, reflecting the idea that we see ourselves as we believe others see us.

A Young Child Is Repeatedly Given Negative Messages About Clumsiness