The concept of the self that typically initiates actions before social rules are internalized is known as what?

• A. I
• B. Me
• C. Generalized Other
• D. Self-development

Answer: (A)

In symbolic interactionism, the self has two aspects: the impulsive, spontaneous part that acts before rules are learned, and the socialized part. The impulsive piece, often called the “I,” initiates action on its own—before social rules are internalized or reflected upon. It’s the energy behind novelty and personal drive, driving behavior in the moment. The other aspect, the “Me,” is formed through socialization, representing the attitudes and expectations of others that a person internalizes and considers when acting. The term describing the broader sense of societal norms one internalizes is the Generalized Other, which helps anticipate how society would view a behavior. Self-development isn’t the specific label for these ideas. So the part that starts actions before rules are internalized is the I.