Explain how the constructed self influenced you use on social media according to symbolic interactionism
According to symbolic interactionism, the constructed self is the idea that individuals shape their own identities through their interactions with others and the symbols they use to represent themselves. This means that our self-concept is constantly being shaped and reshaped by the feedback and reactions we receive from others.
In the context of social media, the constructed self plays a significant role in shaping how we present ourselves online. We carefully curate our online personas, choosing which photos, posts, and updates to share with our friends and followers in order to portray a certain image of ourselves. This image is often a reflection of how we want to be perceived by others, and can be influenced by societal norms and expectations.
For example, someone who wants to be seen as adventurous and outgoing may share photos of themselves traveling or engaging in exciting activities. On the other hand, someone who values intelligence and knowledge may share articles or insights related to their field of expertise. These actions are all driven by the desire to construct a specific image of oneself in the eyes of others.
In this way, the constructed self influences our use of social media by guiding the content we choose to share and the way we present ourselves online. By carefully crafting our online personas, we can reinforce our desired self-image and attract positive reinforcement and validation from our online communities. Ultimately, the constructed self is a powerful force in shaping how we engage with social media and interact with others in the digital world.