How Theoretical Perspectives Relate to Everyday Life

In this discussion, you will explain how theoretical perspectives relate to everyday life. Complete the following:

1. Choose one of the following three theoretical perspectives.
   1. Structural Functionalism
   2. Conflict Theory
   3. Symbolic Interactions
2. Explain how this perspective relates to your everyday life.
3. Create an open-ended question for your peers related to this week’s learning.

In this discussion, you will explain how theoretical perspectives relate to everyday life. Complete the following:

1. Choose one of the following three theoretical perspectives.
   1. Structural Functionalism
   2. Conflict Theory
   3. Symbolic Interactions
2. Explain how this perspective relates to your everyday life.
3. Create an open-ended question for your peers related to this week’s learning.

Symbolic Interactionism in Everyday Life

Symbolic Interactionism focuses on how people create meaning through social interactions and shared symbols. In my daily life, this theory applies in multiple ways, particularly in my role as a nurse and a student studying to become a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP).

For example, in patient care, communication plays a crucial role in understanding and addressing mental health concerns. A patient’s facial expressions, tone of voice, and choice of words serve as symbols that convey their emotions and experiences. Similarly, the medical terminology I use with colleagues differs from the simplified language I use when educating patients, illustrating how meanings shift based on context.

Another example is how societal labels affect individuals. The stigma surrounding mental illness is a social construct, and patients may internalize negative labels, influencing their self-identity and willingness to seek care. As a future PMHNP, I must be aware of these dynamics and use positive reinforcement to reshape patients’ self-perceptions and interactions with others.

Open-Ended Question for Peers:

How do you see Symbolic Interactionism shaping the way individuals form their identities in different social settings, such as family, work, or online interactions?

In this discussion, you will explain how theoretical perspectives relate to everyday life. Complete the following:

1. Choose one of the following three theoretical perspectives.
   1. Structural Functionalism
   2. Conflict Theory
   3. Symbolic Interactions
2. Explain how this perspective relates to your everyday life.
3. Create an open-ended question for your peers related to this week’s learning.