What does symbolic interaction theory propose about human motivation?

Symbolic interaction theory emphasizes that human motivation is fundamentally rooted in the meanings individuals assign to people, events, and interactions within their social contexts. This perspective suggests that our understanding of the world is constructed through social interactions, where individuals interpret and give significance to their experiences. These meanings are not static; rather, they evolve through communication and shared experiences with others, influencing how individuals behave and make decisions. Therefore, motivations arise not merely from biological or instinctual urges but from the interpretations and meanings that individuals develop within their social environments. This highlights the importance of social context in shaping thoughts, feelings, and actions, making the notion of assigned meanings central to understanding motivation within this framework.