Social Interaction & Performance: Crash Course Sociology #15

I know I promised I would write a post on this blog about a week ago. Nonetheless, school and some other obligations got in the way. Last week, I posted a teaser on social interaction and how crucial it is for us to be socially active. This time around, I will elucidate on it slightly further. Not to mention I will include a couple of examples in order to reinforce my explanations.

Whether we like it or not, we interact with other people at work, school, or anywhere we go on a constant basis. Thus, the need for us to learn how to behave properly in different situations. Besides, we all have a role in society. Regardless of how big or small, it is a role nevertheless. Apart from roles, we possess statuses. You see, a person usually performs a role, but they also hold a status. Be that as it may, there are some statuses we have no control over. For instance, skin color, gender, the financial situation of a person's parents, among others. The aforesaid are called ascribed statuses. They often happen at birth or later on in life, but are beyond our control. On the other hand, we have achieved statuses. Those are usually attained through hard work and the right conditions. Case in point, becoming the CEO of a reputable company.

Moreover, there is also the master status. In other words, the one people use to recognize you. The aforementioned status can either be accomplished such as "a doctor" or ascribed such as "color blindness patient". Notwithstanding, there are also situations in which roles do not have to be performed. Let me give you an example so as to illustrate my point. You happen to encounter one of your college professors at the mall. The interaction is of course going to be awkward. Due to the fact that it had not been planned in advance. Furthermore, there are countless situations such as the aforesaid in which the specific role of a person in society is not demarcated.

 

In review, I would say that there are a few things we should take into account when it comes to social interaction. Irrespective of how experienced we are socially, should we never disrespect others on account of their beliefs, sexual orientation, etc.  In fact, what makes developed countries remarkably appealing is the social diversity of their main cities. Keeping an open mind does provide you with more opportunities to grow in all aspects of life.

Sources:
- Crash Course YouTube channel